Envision Peripherals LM720 17

WHAT'S HOT: When we tested Envision's $550 AOC LM720, it was among the least-expensive 17-inch LCDs we'd seen. In our image quality tests (which include Excel spreadsheets and Microsoft Word files), it displayed clear, sharp fonts.

WHAT'S NOT: The LM720's image quality is inconsistent at best. On our white-screen test--which we use to assess the uniformity of a monitor's brightness--we saw a pinkish tint in the corners. The image on our screen of a Web page was bright--too bright, in fact, for some elements. And test screens of photos appeared washed out (with a whitish cast). And because we couldn't find an exit button for the on-screen display, we had to wait for it to time out.

This silver monitor with dark gray accents doesn't pivot, is not height-adjustable, and has a nonswiveling base.

WHAT ELSE: Printed documentation includes the basics of setup and operation; but for anything else, you have to dig up the online docs at Envision's site. The LM720 comes with 20 preset video modes--more than most displays offer.

UPSHOT: The bare-bones LM720 is acceptable if you're a bargain hunter who works mostly with text. Look elsewhere if you view a lot of graphics.

SUMMARY

Envision AOC LM720 17-inch screen, 1024 by 768 native resolution, 16 by 8.5 by 16.7 inches, 11 pounds, LCD panel, analog inputs. Three-year warranty (including backlight); 11-hour daily toll-free tech support. $550 888/838-6388 www.envisionmonitor.com