The chaps over at Xbit-Labs tested 12 different 19" LCD monitors from Acer, BenQ, LG, NEC, Sony and Samsung with a native resolution of 1280x1024 pixels and an aspect ratio of 5:4. Here's a taster:

The Samsung SyncMaster 971P is unique among them as it is one of the few available 19" models based on a PVA matrix. It also features an outstanding exterior design which, fortunately, doesn't tell negatively on its functionality. The only downside is the high price of this monitor, but if you can spend so much money for a deserving monitor - you should definitely take a look at it. Next, I'd want to single the recently released Samsung SyncMaster 961BF out of monitors on fast RTC-enabled TN matrixes. Besides a fast matrix, it features an interesting exterior design and a wide selection of setup options. It is free from obvious defects. The BenQ FP93G X+ and Acer 1916Fsd are interesting, too, as inexpensive, yet well-made products with fast matrixes and minor setup flaws. The more expensive Samsung SyncMaster 932BF stands out among its classmates due to its uncommon exterior design.

The twin models L1952TR and L1953TR from LG aren't any worse than the above-mentioned monitors in their characteristics, but their stand is less functional and their controls are less easy to use. The Sony SDM-E96D is an appealing product from among models on slow TN matrixes without Response Time Compensation. It is designed specifically for office use, but its price is rather too high in comparison with other models and may repel the potential customer. LG's L1918S and L1953S are cheap and robust products, traditionally for the brand. They offer good characteristics, but have certain design-related drawbacks. The NEC LCD195VXM+ features a correct reproduction of colors for this class of monitors, but its price seems too high. And of course, none of the monitors with a specified response time of over 4 milliseconds can be recommended as a gaming monitor. They prove many times slower than RTC-enabled models in real applications.