IBM ThinkVision L170p
At a Glance
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IBM 17in LCD THINKVISION L170P 1280x1024 500:1 Stealth Black (IBM-6734HB0)
Well-built model performed competently; large, curved buttons are comfortable and easy to use, even for large hands.
We reviewed IBM's L170P a year ago, and this charcoal-black business monitor has stood the test of time extremely well. It showed crisp text--in both regular and reverse type--on our test screen of multisize fonts. On our grayscale screen, it earned a higher score than any other 17-inch LCD, displaying light shades especially clearly. The L170p made a strong showing on our graphics tests as well, producing pleasing colors on all screens and distinct details of a white ribbed sweater in our group photo test screen.
The design elements we liked in the L170p remain intact: Swivel, tilt, and height adjustment work smoothly; and the big, wavy buttons make it easy for large-handed people to change screen settings (we'd be happier if the buttons were marked with words instead of with symbols, though).
IBM's ThinkVision L170p is at the upper end of the price scale for 17-inch LCDs, but it attractively combines fine image quality, good looks, and solid design.
Laura Blackwell
At a Glance
Well-built model performed competently; large, curved buttons are comfortable and easy to use, even for large hands.
