Final Thoughts

I really enjoyed using the Topaz S. Moving from a 20.1-inch screen to a 24-inch screen was a big step, but I sure am enjoying the 24-inch screen. I really like working in the 1920 x 1200 resolution, it allows me to have many windows open on the screen at the same time. I also like that I am able to have my IM windows on the side of the screen so I can always see them.

Gamers should not have anything to worry about with the Topaz S. The 3ms response time means there will be no ghosting or artifacting. All the games that we tested ran smoothly. It was also nice to play games at full 1920 x 1200 resolution. Watching movies and TV on the display was enjoyable. No backlighting bled through to cause any white haze. The big 24-inch screen is perfect for watching movies with friends and even playing games together, it is perfect for a dorm room.

Now there are some faults that I did find with this display. First off there is no vertical adjustment on the stand, so if you want to move the display up you need to put a book under the stand or do something else to move it up. You can only angle the display up or down and if you want to swivel it side to side you have to move the entire thing, stand in all. Finally I don't like how the stand makes it hard for users to install their DVI cable, the connection could have easily been moved over.

I found this display online from anywhere from $300 - $400. I saw a lot of posts that said you could get it at Office Max for under $300. At around $300 it really is a good deal, I mean it is a 24-inch screen with a 3ms response time and a 1000:1 contrast ratio. Overall ThinkComputers gives the Soyo Topaz S 24-inch Widescreen LCD Monitor a 8 out of 10 score.

Pros:

- Huge 24-inch display and 1920 x 1200 resolution
- 3ms response time great for gaming
- Very easy to setup

Cons:

- No vertical or side to side adjustment
- Stand blocks DVI connection