Updated 13 Feb, 2012, 6:30 pm IST

REVIEWS / MONITORS / ASUS TECHNOLOGY PVT. LTD

Asus MW221u

04 Jun, 2007, 11:13 am IST | Jayesh Mansukhani | Monitors

The MW221u is a 22-inch TN LCD panel with a native resolution of 1680x1050 and has a contrast ratio of 700:1. While these specifications are common and very typical of 22-inch monitors, what sets the MW221u apart is its response time of 2ms. For testing the performance of the MW221u, we used a combination of synthetic benchmark tools such as Everest and Display-Mate, FPS games like F.E.A.R and Prey, MMORPG games like WoW and by watching HD movies to arrive at a consistent performance result.

For our first series of tests we ran graphically intensive games such as WoW, F.E.A.R and Oblivion. There were no surprises here. The monitor's 2ms response time made any form of ghosting that might have occurred in other monitors a virtual impossibility. To stress the monitor further, we used a variety of WMV HD clips and 2 movies that have intense action sequences (Gladiator/X-Men2). Here also the monitor held its own admirably with no video lag and fluid playback.

For our second series of tests we decided to check out this monitors sharpness, color output and contrast ratio using the rather comprehensive tools that Everest and Display-Mate offer. The results we got from these tests were rather surprising. As compared to the sterling standards set by previous Asus monitors, the MW221u had average results across the spectrum. Color output though being vibrant tended to be over-emphasized in certain games leading to a cartoony like display. The black-levels which are normally an Asus panel's strength were very average and for some HD content were below the standards that even a standard 19-inch panel would offer. The only place that the monitor did not suffer in was the contrast ratio and sharpness, which were as good as one would expect. However keeping in mind all the factors, it is disappointing that a monitor that offers a 2 ms response time would be handicapped by these issues.

The MW221u priced at Rs. 28,000 is an average performer. While it offers a fantastic response time, its lack of height and base adjustment and less than satisfactory performance does nothing to promote it as a serious contender. If you are in the market for a 22-inch LCD panel, we suggest you look at competitors like Dell, Viewsonic and Benq each of who have equally good performers and cost as much as Rs. 10,000 less.

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Tags: Asusm MW221u , 22-Inch , LCD

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