Twenty-two inches is quickly becoming the norm for widescreen monitors, and with its FP222w, BenQ is right in the middle of the action.

Like all 22-inch widescreens, the FP222W uses an LCD panel with a native resolution of 1,680x1,050. This is the same resolution found on smaller 20- and 21-inch displays, so you get a larger image but not more workspace.

The FP222W has average brightness and contrast for a display in this price range. Images are bright and blacks are rich, with good detail in highlights and shadows. The 5-millisecond pixel response time is one of the fastest we've seen for an LCD monitor, providing crisp, clean images even in video and fast-paced games.

The display includes BenQ's well-regarded Senseye technology, which dynamically adjusts brightness and contrast to achieve deeper, richer colors and blacks than the specifications would suggest. Senseye also helps when displaying text or images with jagged edges, as it adjusts the sharpness and color for better-defined outlines.

The usual variety of adjustments is available, including brightness, contrast and sharpness. You can also turn the Senseye technology off or on. A user-defined color mode lets you adjust the RGB settings to get just the right color detail, or you can choose from three predefined color levels and white balances (normal, cool and warm).

While the FP222W excels in display quality, it overlooks some important details, namely ergonomics and input capabilities. The monitor's rigid support system is strong and dependable, but there are no height or swivel options. This omission may not matter to everyone, but if you do need to adjust the display's height, you may be reduced to scrounging for old telephone books. On the connection side, the FP222W only has a digital DVI and an analog D-sub link. Desktop computer systems are evolving into digital multimedia hubs, so we would prefer to see a few more inputs, such as HDMI and component video.

We have one other nit to pick with the FP222W. BenQ follows an industry trend by placing the control buttons on the side of the display, so you need to rotate the display or peer around the side to see which buttons do what. Side-mounted controls are a misguided attempt to produce LCD displays with thin bezels, and we would rather see a slightly larger bottom bezel that includes all the control buttons up front and easily viewable and usable.

Nitpicks aside, what's most important is performance, and the FP222W delivers in spades. This monitor gives you crisp text, good color, sharp detail and excellent pixel response time. The BenQ FP222W LCD display is a smart choice if you are an avid gamer or watch or create a lot of video, and it can be a blessing if you require good, clean text to help reduce eyestrain.


Pros: Ultra-fast pixel response time, clean and crisp display, very good color performance
Cons: Limited video inputs, poor placement of controls, non-adjustable stand

Warranty
3 years, parts and labor