IBM 17in LCD THINKVISION L170P 1280x1024 500:1 Stealth Black (IBM-6734HB0)

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).

Upshot: 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