Torn between 24" IPS and 26" TN

[worde]

I'm currently looking for a new monitor to replace my Samsung 226cw. I'm getting tired of the poor color reproduction on it so I decided to get a model with an IPS panel in the 24+", preferably 26" range.

With LG w2600hp's practical disappearance, there's no 26" IPS choices within my price range so I'm left with HP's and Dell's 24" offerings. I just have a few concerns. First, is text noticeably smaller on a 24" with 1920x1200 compared to a 22" with 1680x1050?

Second, I've never seen an IPS panel in action, so I don't know what to expect in terms of improvement. For that reason I'm being drawn towards Fujitsu's 26" sl3260w even though it's a TN model. I must admit I'm a little unsure about spending over 400 pounds for an upgrade of "just" 2 inches. That's why the Fujitsu is so appealing and not knowing of any better, I might even live with the TN panel.

I would appreciate input on the matter of smaller but better image vs larger but worse image. The monitor would primarily be used for games and movies. I'm also open for suggestions for other models, my budget is currently set at £450.

 

[CaptainCrash]

In this situation, if I were you I'd order both and return the one I liked least under the DSRs. It's a bit of a pain, and you'll probably have to pay return carriage on the monitor(s) you send back, but it's a fairly expensive purchase anyway which should last you a few years, so it's worth making the extra effort to get it right.

Monitors tend to be very much a personal thing, and with the best will in the world, other people's opinions can't substitute for having the hardware in front of you and making up your own mind.

 

[Spyhop]

First, is text noticeably smaller on a 24" with 1920x1200 compared to a 22" with 1680x1050?

Only 9% smaller, so I doubt it's an issue. I use a 17" 1920x1200 and it's fine as long as my contacts are in!

I'd definitely sway towards an IPS panel.

The only thing to keep in mind is that since you'd be going the image quality route, it'd be good to get/borrow a hardware calibration device to make sure that you get the best out of it. Even good monitors often ship with inexplicably dodgy manufacturer settings and profiles.

 

[smilertoo]

If colour is important then you want the IPS.

 

[mrk]

Put it this way, I just recalibrated my H-IPS 24" and this time played with a few OSD changes.

Let's just say I am pleased again
With TN you'll have a constant battle of the viewing angles and colour shifting and the hurting and crying and the pushing and shoving.