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Unique in this round-up, the LG’s M203WX is a hybrid LCD monitor/TV. Unlike many low-cost LCD TVs, the M203WX is also a fully specified 20in widescreen monitor.
It combines 1,680 x 1,050 resolution, 300cd/m2 brightness and a 600:1 contrast ratio, plus an infra-red remote control and built-in memory card reader.
Its two-tone black and silver finish looks as at home in the office as in the living room. Its two small round speakers come with optional grilles and are a little more powerful than on a standard monitor.
A vast array of connections is provided, in addition to dual VGA/DVI inputs there are composite, S-video and Scart sockets. The side of the monitor that houses the integral USB hub is complemented by the optional 4-in-1 media card reader fitted to our review model.
A full-size remote control is included that, in addition to performing the usual TV-based functions, provides access to the on-screen menus and is less fiddly to use than the monitor’s own control buttons.
The M203WX is certainly a monitor with a TV tuner rather than a TV that happens to work as a monitor.
We would have expected a brighter panel on a TV and the speakers, although generous when compared to the other monitors, can’t really be heard at any great distance from the screen.
However, on a desk in a smaller room, the TV functionality is a welcome, space-saving addition. No sacrifices have been made in usability.
The M203WX produced very smooth gradations but was let down by viewing angle and colour performance. In our Displaymate tests, we were unable to achieve good differentiation between the very brightest test patches.
We also noticed shifts in the displayed image at wider viewing angles, which is a shame for a product designed to be used as a television.
This is part of a group test looking at widescreen TFTs. For other
products in the test, see:
Apple 20in Cinema Display
Belinea 10 20 35W
Dell Ultrasharp 2005FPW
HP f2105
LG M203WX
Philips Brilliance 200W6
TFT Technology explained
Should you go widescreen?
Large widescreen TFT monitors used to be a luxury for those with deep pockets, but that’s all changed. We review six displays costing less than £600 31 Jan 2006
All Flat Panel monitors
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