Conclusion
What a surprise! Between theoretical and practical tests, there is an enormous difference. We were expecting a technology designed by BenQ and we have found a derivative of an innovation first presented by Samsung. As a reminder, Samsung hasn't released this technology yet and the first MPA monitor is scheduled to be released in 2007. Until this date, we will have to make do with this 24".
Now, if you find this technology really interesting because you want to reduce at all costs afterglow that is too much of a problem with other monitors, we recommend you wait for the MPA that will have another advantage, a 120 Hz mode. The combination of "high frequency" + "screening" will probably give excellent results and we can't wait to see it! Unfortunately, no manufacturer has announced a release date for these products. Do we really have to wait for one?
What about the HDMI input?
We almost forgot about it and we have to say that we haven't been really convinced by its results.
We made several tests with the DVI input of our graphic card, the HDMI input of the monitor and a very good cable (very expensive) connecting the two. No luck, the monitor was no longer recognised in its native resolution, 1920 x 1200 pixels, but rather as a TV, and was restricted to 1920 x 1080. The image was still fully displayed (it wasn't cut as it sometimes happen with TVs) but it wasn't sharp. Interpolation was problematic, which often happens for computer monitors. It introduces a slight blur effect and a noticeable reduction in details.
We used this interface for a couple of minutes to test it, but we quickly went back to DVI
Conclusion: we like the ergonomics, good reaction time and innovative aspect…Lastly, we spent a lot of time discussing the technology and haven't talked about the monitor ergonomics, design and finishing touches. First, the finishing touches are rather average. Compared to the 23 and 24" monitors of the competition (Dell and Apple, for example), the BenQ looks a bit
cheap with its basic plastic and very standard design. It compensates with the video inputs (HDMI, YUV, S-Video), the USB hub of 3 ports (two on the left side and one above), the vertically adjustable foot and pivot mode. This monitor is extremely practical and very pleasant to use.
Finally, we come to the price and release date. The BenQ FP241WZ is scheduled to be released in January 2007 at 1,009 € (VAT included). The version without BFI will be at 1,049 €. If you buy one of them, choose the Z version.
