Samsung SyncMaster 172T

WHAT'S HOT: Samsung's sleek, silver flat-panel is one of the most attractive LCDs we've reviewed. The monitor is only about an inch thick and has a matching square stand. Other style highlights include a unique hinged base that allows the panel to extend up and out to adjust its viewing angle. The unit can also fold down flat against its base for easy toting.

We retested the SyncMaster 172T using its digital video input (it will also accept an analog video signal). Graphics fared slightly better than text. Skin tones, for instance, appeared natural in our test photos. While the monitor produced crisp letters and fonts, text didn't look as sharp or as crisp as on its sibling, the SyncMaster 172B. The display reproduced finely distinguishable black and white lines without shimmering.

Samsung doesn't stint on tech support; the company offers 24-hour daily toll-free assistance.

WHAT'S NOT: Unlike other models we retested for this review, the 172T didn't get cheaper. Though the 172T's $680 price tag was about average when we first tested it, the monitor now seems pricey compared to others. After the Eizo Nanao FlexScan L565, the 172T carries the heftiest price on our chart.

WHAT ELSE: An eight-page booklet describes in detail how to install drivers for Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Linux.

UPSHOT: Based on current prices, this model is expensive, especially if you don't care about high style.