Monitors for CAD

Cadalyst Labs Report: Before you make your next monitor purchase, learn how to choose options that will meet your needs and take a look at six current models that we put through their paces in Cadalyst Labs.

ViewSonic VP2765-LED
27" LED-backlit LCD monitor
Overall Grade: A
Pros: High performance, clear and bright, impressive static contrast ratio, subtle design, very stable.
Cons: No HDMI port.
Price: $510
ViewSonic | 888.881.8781

ViewSonic's VP2765-LED is one big, beautiful screen. At 27", it is the largest of the monitors in our roundup.

Resolution. This model offers advanced multidomain vertical alignment (AMVA) and a native resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 at a 16:9 aspect ratio. The rich display image is courtesy of the 300 cd/m² brightness and an impressive 3,000:1 static contrast ratio. It has a 12-ms response time, but moving images were fluid and crisp. Antiglare coating improves visibility.

Ports and plugs. Video and power connections are on the back of the monitor and include VGA, DVI-D, and DisplayPort. There you'll find two USB 2.0 ports and a USB upstream port. All connections on the back of the unit face downward, but are easy to access. Plus, mounted flush on the left side of the monitor are two additional USB 2.0 ports.

For those who need a great deal of screen real estate, the 27" ViewSonic VP2765-LED is ideal.

Design and adjustability. The stand has a vertical adjustment of 5.3" (134 mm) and a 120-degree horizontal swivel, and it incorporates two plastic loops in back to manage cables. Vertical tilt is 25 degrees and the display has a full 90-degree turn from landscape to portrait mode. The AMVA has a 178-degree viewing angle and looks nice in any position.

The most obvious trait of this monitor's industrial design is its stylish three-toed pedestal. From the front, the footprint reaches clear across the 27" monitor and spans 15.3" front to back. If that sounds huge, that's because it is! This footprint gives the monitor immense stability.

Warranty. Coverage is an industry-standard three years for parts, labor, and backlight. The model is available from ViewSonic and retail partners for approximately $510, making this 27" monitor a great value. Highly Recommended.

Compare the six monitors in this roundup side by side: LED Monitor Specification Table

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8