Acer S222HQL

Although Acer is well known for its desktop PCs and notebooks, the company also manufactures a range of LCD screens.

In this grouptest the S222HQL is both the least expensive and smallest at US $190 and 21.5-inches. Despite its budget price tag however, the Acer isn't short on features. For the connectivity you get D-Sub, DVI and HDMI inputs, so you will be able to hook it up to a variety of sources without worry. The screen's on-screen-display (OSD) is easy to interact with and measuring just 12.9mm thick, it is one of the slimmest screens here.

Performance-wise the finished-in-black S222HQL proved competent. Its visuals were crisp, sharp and bright and with a 5ms response time, it didn't struggle with quick moving video or games. The only issue we noticed is that the blacks produced by this screen had a tinge of gray. Thanks to its native resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels, you'll be able to view Full HD content. That said, given its 21.5-inch size we would have preferred it if this screen were offered with a lower resolution for more relaxed viewing.

Being a budget model the Acer is fairly basic in terms of features; you don't get a USB hub or integrated speakers and adjustment-wise, the screen offers only tilt functionality. The Acer also relies on an external power adapter, which will, unfortunately, add to clutter in your home or office.