A competent multimedia-oriented monitor, the HP w2228h offers HDMI connectivity and good image quality. However, the reflective coating will bother many users, particularly under fluorescent lights.

Better-looking than many monitors, the HP w1907 would fare decently at a business, a home office, or at home for personal use, while adding some style to the desktop.

While the technology behind the Acer AL1917L is quite impressive, the application still needs a little work. Colours are exceptional but the viewing angle and over sharpening don't do it any favours. There are better monitors on the market, but if you want to be more environmentally conscious, this monitor will do the job.

The HP w2007 is a 20in display that's a good all-around widescreen monitor with interesting features such as built-in speakers and a shiny, high-gloss screen. Its limited viewing angle and lack of colour controls might not please picky photographers and discerning designers, but it would be a fine fit for surfing the Web or working on Microsoft Office documents.

HP's w2448hc is a fairly good but not outstanding 24in panel. While its HDMI connectivity and built-in webcam are both boons, the glossy finish is extremely distracting and there are some colour issues that may annoy image quality purists.

The LCD3090WQXi is an excellent display with only one major flaw — its price.

The Samsung SyncMaster 2493HM is a great monitor at an average price — and that's a winning combination.

LG's Flatron W1942T is a fairly basic monitor that performed well in our tests. It doesn't offer the best image around, but users after a simple widescreen display for basic computer use and the occasional film or game will find this model satisfying.