Help me to understand flat screens for tv & monitor use.

[alphacoyle]

Hello,

I have been researching flat screens around 37" for awhile now and there's a huge learning curve here. I'd like to get one that's long lasting as we run it a lot but also has clear text etc for computer use. We don't watch cable so I don't think hd is a big deal. I see the commercial monitors are often 720p and are made for 24/7 usage. Could we just get one of these for dvd movies, netflix, youtube videos and general computer usage? If so is there a minimum resolution required? Just looking for a basic, no frills 37" monitor that's going to last.
Need to stay under $600.

Thanks!

 

[ssddx]

hi-def is a big deal. if you've ever hooked up to a 480p/720p tv you would know why! you will want a 1080p tv.

as far as reliable brands... sony, lg, maybe samsung. avoid olevia, vizio and other cheap brands.

you dont need 120/240hz. such fancy frills might cause issues with setup (requiring a special mode for pc use)

led or ccfl backlighting. your choice. led models are thinner, lighter, better on power but are normally a little more expensive.

--

my recommendation?

either the 40" or 46" sony models. a relative just bought a 46" led 60hz non-3d sony bravia for about $650. i think the 40" was between $450-$550. he bought it at BJ's wholesale club but i am sure you can find a similar product elsewhere (not walmart! they get cheaper models)

 

[alphacoyle]

And those will work as computer monitor's as well?

 

[ssddx]

i use a 40" sony bravia 60hz 1080p lcd ccfl backlight television....as my primary screen nowdays.

the only issue with using a tv is that you might have to kick up windows zoom level to +5 or +10% and have internet explorer at +5% since small text is harder to read. its not a huge issue though.

a television is a good choice for a monitor if you play games, media, and movies mostly. web browsing is okay. i'm not a huge fan of doing office work on it though as i feel smaller monitors are better for this.

a small monitor is a good choice for office work, web browsing or gaming. movies can be played but arent as immersive as a larger screen.