Advueu ADV15DT

WHAT'S HOT: For a budget model ($249 at the time of our review), the ADV15DT sports a nice design. Its screen rests in a relatively thin (about 1-inch) pewter-color frame that sits above a black base with integrated speakers.

WHAT'S NOT: Regardless of the settings we chose, the ADV15DT had an overall grayish cast that muted colors and made text a bit harder to see than on other models. It was one of the lowest-scoring monitors in our jury tests, ranking number 19 in text quality and number 17 in graphics out of a field of 21 competitors. The mushy control buttons on the right side of the monitor often require repeat presses to register, and they lead to a confusing on-screen menu that demands scrolling in two directions to navigate. Not surprisingly, the tiny integrated speakers are quite weak, but they also distort sound painfully at any level above about half volume. Even bargain-hunters should consider handing over a bit more for a higher-quality but still low-cost monitor, such as the Sharp LL-T15G3, also reviewed this month.

WHAT ELSE: Documentation is limited to a short pamphlet that briefly covers monitor setup and controls. Tech support is provided for 10 hours per day on weekdays. (Many other vendors provide 24-hour, daily service.)

UPSHOT: Saving money usually involves some compromises, but even penny-pinchers would do better to spend just a few extra dollars for a higher-quality monitor.

SUMMARY

Advueu ADV15DT 15-inch screen, 1024 by 768 native resolution, 13.6 by 5.6 by 12.8 inches, 6.4 pounds, TFT panel, analog inputs. Three-year warranty (including backlight); 10-hour weekday toll-free tech support. $249 888/622-5005 www.advueu.com