ViewSonic G75f

The last time we saw a 17in display from ViewSonic was 13 months ago, when we were treated to a feature-packed but expensive monitor - the PF775 (see Labs, issue 78, p102). Just over a year later, the opposite is the case - the G75f lacks several desirable features, but is well priced and has especially good image quality.

The reason for the lower price can be attributed to the flat shadow-mask CRT, as opposed to the PF775's Diamondtron NF tube. With a recommended resolution of 1,024 x 768 at 105Hz, the ViewSonic will be kind on the eyes, but the high reflectivity of the screen negates some of this advantage. The G75f's strength lies in sharpness and resolution, where it secured third place. It only failed the tough transient response and corner resolution tests. The colour and greyscale tests along with geometry and distortion were less impressive - it achieved average scores for both of these.

The OSD, while not the most intuitive, is comprehensive, with only linearity and convergence controls missing. These aren't a great loss, as we found the convergence excellent and the linearity acceptable. Top and bottom pin controls are a bonus. E-Color's Colorific software is bundled, which enables you to set up the screen to display colours as accurately as possible.

The ViewSonic G75f is a very good monitor, and the low price makes it an attractive proposition. However, the low maximum resolution counts against it, handing the CTX EX710F the Best Value award.