Computer Monitors

Computer Monitor Buying Tips

Buying a computer monitor isn't nearly as straightforward as it seems. You can't rely on store clerks for information, so you'll need to educate yourself -- and pay attention to these common mistakes that businesses make when purchasing computer monitors.

If you're like most small business owners, computer monitors are a central feature of your workplace.

The right computer monitors make it easy for your workers to stay at their desks for longer periods of time because they minimize eyestrain and other common computer-related ailments.

Old or outdated computer monitors, on the other hand, make your employees want to pull their hair out. Inconsistent image quality, screen flickering and low pixel counts have a cumulative impact in your workplace. With the prices of flat screen computer monitors at an all-time low, you're out of reasons to avoid monitor upgrades. Here are a handful of common computer monitor buying mistakes you will need to avoid when you go shopping.

• Impulse computer monitor buys. One of the nice things about monitors is that they are readily available at any store that sells office supplies or basic electronics. Although it won't be difficult to locate products, you may be tempted to make an impulse purchase on price alone. Resist the urge and do a little research before you settle on a specific model.
• Wrong application. Some computers are specifically designed to meet the needs of serious gamers. Others have more modest features that are designed to meet the needs of office workers. If you don't understand the difference between the two, you could drop a lot of cash on a monitor that has way more horsepower than you really need.
• Monitor size issues. For most small businesses, a 20" or 22" monitor offers more than enough screen space to perform typical office functions. Smaller 17" models can create readability issues, while larger screens are probably overkill.
• Buying computer monitors over the Internet. For some products, buying over the Internet is a perfectly legitimate alternative to traditional in-store shopping. Unfortunately, a computer monitor is not one of those products that should be ordered with a mouse click. Test drive monitors at a retail supplier location to make sure the one you select meets your requirements for size and visibility.
• Forgetting about sound. Many computer monitor buyers assume that new monitors have integrated speakers, but that's not always the case. Unless you're planning to connect an external speaker system to your computer, you need to focus your search on models with integrated speaker components.
• Lack of plug-ins. You should also consider whether or not the monitor has convenient USB ports that make it easy to plug in peripherals. These features are not a significant upgrade, but they can significantly enhance your workspace.

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