BenQ VW2420H review

We’ve reviewed a slew of LED monitors this year, but until now, all have used ‘budget’ TN LCD panels. TN stands for Twisted Nematic, and such panels are the cheapest variety and tend to have fast response times.

Compared to VA (Vertical Alignment) panels as used by the 24in VW2420H, TN panels have worse viewing angles, poorer contrast and duller colours. However, VA panels are more expensive and tend to have slower response times.

In the VW2420H’s case, the panel has an 8ms response time. Although this may sound a lot worse than the 2ms times of many TN panels, most people wouldn’t be able to tell the difference. Watching our test videos, including a mix of 24, 25 and 30fps material, we certainly didn’t notice any ghosting during fast-paced sequences. Playing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, we saw a tiny amount of blurring when panning, but nothing that would cause even avid gamers concern.

We also saw the 3:000:1 native contrast ratio in action: blacks were much deeper and more convincing than on any LED TN panel we’ve seen. Plus, colours were bolder and more saturated. Viewing angles are better, too, but BenQ has opted for an unusual coating which is half way between matt and gloss, so reflections tend to take over the more you move off centre; the same is true in dark scenes in games and movies.