A liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor is a computer monitor or display that uses LCD technology to show clear images, and is found mostly in laptop computers and flat panel monitors. This technology has replaced the traditional cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors, which were the previous standard and once were considered to have better picture quality than early LCD variants. With the introduction of better LCD technology and its continuous improvement, LCD is now the clear leader over CRT, in terms of color and picture quality, not to mention capabilities for large resolutions. Also, LCD monitors may be made much more cheaply than CRT monitors.
Various different LCD technologies are used today, including:
In Plane Switching (IPS) Panel Technology: These panels are considered to have the best color accuracy, viewing angles and image quality in LCD technology.
Super Plane to Line Switching (PLS): Developed by Samsung, this LCD panel is very similar to the IPS panel but reportedly, it is 10 percent brighter, has wider viewing angles and is cheaper to produce.
Vertical Alignment (VA) Panel Technology: These panels are considered to be in the middle of TN and IPS technology. Compared to TN panels, they offer wider viewing angles and better color quality but have slower response times. They have higher contrast ratios, compared to the other panels but have a downside, in terms of color shifting, where the brightness display is unevenly distributed throughout the screen.
Twisted Nematic (TN) Panel Technology: These panels are the most commonly used type of panel in LCD technology. They are cheaper and offer faster response times, making them a preferred choice for gamers. The downside is that the viewing angles, contrast ratios and color production are considered the lowest of LCD panel types.