r/lanparty • u/Bobloblah2023 • 10d ago
Monitors
I'm working on a growing suite of systems for running LAN events with a growing group of friends. I'm currently working on three new (to me) DDR3-based systems with a mix of my own old hardware and some used market items. However, for these three systems I'm looking at buying relatively inexpensive new monitors. While I have purchased used monitors quite cheaply in the past, I've often found used monitor purchases to be far more fraught than that of most other used components. Maybe just poor luck?
Regardless, I think I've narrowed it down to either the Acer SB222Q EBI 21.5" FHD, or the Dell SE2426H 24" FHD. Both seem to have basically acceptable stats for what I need (e.g. FHD, IPS, 100Hz+, <3ms). They'll be used primarily for shooters, with a few other RTS, racing, fighting, or ARPG titles thrown in.
Can anyone here speak to either model? Alternatively, can anyone suggest an alternative model? Again, keep in mind that I don't think I'm going used this time due to too many hassles with used monitors previously...
Thanks for any input!
1
u/Bulky-Ad129 10d ago
I recently bought Philips 27E2N2500 27 Zoll QHD Monitor, 120Hz, IPS, 1ms MPRT Adaptive Sync HDR10 (2560x1440,HDMI 1x 2.0,DP 1x 1.4) and it was my best decision.
1
u/zed0K 10d ago
21.5 is fairly small. It's fine for a quick session but 24 will be better suited for LAN parties.
2
u/Bobloblah2023 9d ago
I'm trying to keep the size down for both moving and storage, not to mention price, but I am willing to go up to 24" if I can meet minimum specs on budget.Â
1
u/Bobloblah2023 3d ago
So, it turns out that the Acer 21.5" is fantastic in so many ways - sharp, bright, excellent contrast, fast response, plus the monitor is super slim and a featherweight for moving - but the stand is absolute hot garbage. It's so flimsy that the slightest movement nearby leaves it wobbling like it's mounted on a spring.Â
The Dell monitor (the "G" gamer model version) on the other hand, while decent, can't match the visual clarity (partially due to the size) or brightness of the Acer. It's still decent, with zero apparent ghosting, and most importantly the stand is much better. Not great, mind you; it doesn't wobble, but still wouldn't be hard to knock over.Â
If I were arm-mounting, I'd probably favour the Acer model, even though it doesn't have proper VESA mounting, with only two holes. For traditional use, the Dell.Â
3
u/AtomicCow_04 9d ago
For pop-up LAN party events, I've found that the mass produced Dell monitors work well enough. From retro to modern setups they get the job done. Our local computer shop bought out excess equipment from a shut down service desk and they had a bunch of matching Dell P2016 monitors that they flipped for $20 each. I found a few more on eBay reasonably cheap (considering shipping). 20 inch (19.45 viewable) IPS LED, 1440x900, 16:10, 60/75hz, 6ms reaponse. DisplayPort, VGA, and USB 2.0. I found bulk lots of slim, mountable, USB speakers for them.
Only downside was in a room with bright, natural light, we had to bring the brightness up in game.
I'd say not to over think it, consider price, availability, weight and size for transportability, and how many you need. Unless you're doing some seriously specific, low latency, high graphics quality stuff or competitions, no need for anything else. We played racing games, Unreal Tournament, Counter-Strike, and more.