LG W2243T:21.5-inch LCD monitor

The novelty of 22-inch full HD monitors is passe, and manufactures now need to offer more than just a sticker proclaiming the 1080p-ness of the panel. So far, the Samsung 2233sw has been the only convert to impress me with its combination of design, clean cut lines and picture quality. Let's see if the LG can manage to leave a mark as well.



Design

LG's W2243T features a 21.5-inch liquid crystal display and great looking slim design. Its smooth glossy surface resembles the Samsung T220 but there are differences in design. Like the flowing OSD button layout at the bottom right of the bezel, which also includes a wavy power button that glows red when turned on. As compared to the touch sensitive buttons of the T220, these are mechanical and have easy-to-read labels printed on the bezel.






The panel stands on a sturdy piano finish stand, which isn't as difficult to connect as the Samsung T220, but doesn't allow the monitor to swivel, giving it only a small amount of tilt instead. The stand is sturdy and holds the panel well in place. The back of the monitor has a DVI-D and a D-Sub (VGA) port for connectivity.




Features


The LG W2243T comes with a 21.5-inch panel that has a maximum resolution of 1920x1080. It has a response time of 5 ms, contrast ratio of 30000:1 (dynamic) and has a maximum brightness of 300 cd/m2. Viewing angles are 170 degree (horizontal) and 160 degree (vertical).

It also features the LG f-Engine that gives the user a choice of viewing presets for different scenarios like Cinema or Movie mode, Internet mode, Text mode, etc. As with almost every other monitor, the experience with these presets is not that great. I'd rather tune it myself.

The good part is the W2243T comes with a bundled DVI-D cable that connects the computer to the monitor. The DVI port automatically selects the best resolution and brightness/contrast values; something like an Auto Adjust mode, so no need for the presets.
Performance



The LG W2243T was subject to an exhaustive list of tests ranging from the objective DisplayMate to the subjective gameplay, internet, text and movie viewing experience.

The LG W2243T cleared almost all the tests with remarkable ease. It performed particularly well in the brightness and color reproduction tests. However, it did manage to throw up a mismatch in the Horizontal Color Registration test, just like every other monitor we have tested here.

Surfing the Internet or using it for day-to-day tasks is a joy. It has ample space on the screen for more than a few windows and displays text without any jagged edges or fringing of any kind.

Movie experience was good but it is evident that the LG W2243T cannot match up to the Samsung 2233sw. It lacks the finesse of the Samsung monitors and pictures. Though good, it appears to be a little flat and less lively.
Overall, the LG W2243T turned out to be a decent competitor for the Samsung 2233sw, and is good enough for everyday usage at home or office. The only thing that might go against the LG is its price.

Verdict


The LG W2243T is available in the market for about Rs. 9,150 with a 3-year warranty. For that price, you could also get yourself the Samsung 2233sw, which is an even better deal. I'd say, skip the LG go for the Samsung.
Specifications