Hazro HZ30WS

Hot on the heels of the stunning Eizo FlexScan SX3031W (web ID: 137331) comes another 30in monster. Hazro is a new name to PC Pro, and the HZ30WS completes its HZ line, which already consists of 23in, 24in and 26in models.

The aluminium chassis totally encases the monitor, so it should withstand the rigours of public locations, and the carry handle on the top of the stand is a nice touch given its 11kg weight.

It isn't aimed at the same market as the Eizo, though, as Hazro clearly believes in offering this huge size for as low a price as possible. Thus, you won't find a raft of consumer inputs (only a dual-link DVI with HDCP support) or integrated stereo speakers; the stand offers no adjustment beyond basic tilting; and there isn't even an onscreen menu system.

Working on the assumption that most graphics professionals will already have their output calibrated in the graphics driver, the HZ30WS has just two touch-sensitive buttons beneath the screen, which raise and lower the brightness as required. The Super-IPS panel offers better colour reproduction than the TN panels commonly used in smaller TFTs, and the response time of 5ms is impressive.

The HZ30WS has a contrast ratio of 1,000:1, but the panel produced mixed results in out technical tests, with the darkest few shades of grey largely merging into black. There are few other weaknesses, though. The backlight was perfectly even and the black and white levels were just about right for such a large screen. It has a mottled finish, though, which shows itself as a slight graininess if you sit too close.

Its main rival is Dell's 3007WFP (web ID: 84912). But while the Hazro tries to make such a huge TFT affordable by stripping it of extras, the Dell still manages to be cheaper - yet offers a fully adjustable stand, integrated card reader and superior brightness and contrast. It may not match the Hazro's colour accuracy but it's the better choice.

Author: David Bayon