Dell 2405FPW

On its own, though, you'd be hard pressed to notice this, and would be more impressed with the great contrast. When viewing widescreen content that left black bars at the top and bottom, they blended in nicely with the black bezel rather than being grey and distracting.

Another factor that could have been distracting is the illuminated power button and input indicators, but they're dim enough that you barely notice them at all. Despite the low price, the stand hasn't been compromised; its height can be extended by a full 100mm, and it swivels and tilts to all the angles you'd want. Unlike all others bar the smaller Dell, it also pivots to portrait mode, although at this size and aspect we can't see many people wanting to.

With all of its features, the 2405FPW's only real drawback is that it isn't as stylish as the Eizo or Sony. But considering the superb three-year on-site warranty, the extra inputs, the card reader and bargain price, it wins this Labs by a clear mile. If you can afford it, the Dell 2405FPW will make you very happy indeed.