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Screen Resolution

Screen resolution affects the way you see a web site. The default is 800 x 600 (it used to be 640 x 480), but nowadays, with all the large screens most are starting to go with 1024 x 768 which in my opinion - is a mistake. Here is why....

- most sites are built for 800 x 600 if they are pro designed
- why would you want to strain your eyes at a higher resolution
- you defeat the way most designers intend for you to see a site

I always use 800 x 600, everything appears well and fills up the screen. When using higher resolutions you get a lot of 'empty space'. If you look at this site using 800 x 600 you will be amazed at the difference (if you are using a different resolution).

Some argue that using percentage tables is better than having set table values, but I disagree, because percentages mean that 'anything' can happen. If it is just text, then it is fine, but if it is graphics then pics can go out of alignment.

Here are the percentages of users for the various resolutions:

Display Size WebSideStory 7/2001 Survey Browser News 12/2001 Stats
640x480 5.71% 4%
800x600 52.47% 53%
1024x768 and higher 35.6% 41%

Not sure what the latest stats are. Lastly, I have used LCD screens, but still do not find them up to mark with a monitor. I could not imagine trying to do good graphic work on an LCD screen.

Resolution Screen

If you buy a flat panel monitor you really need to run it at the "Optimal Resolution" for which it was designed. If you don't then the images will be blurry. So, when you purchase a flat panel monitor you really are forced to run at a resolution higher than 800x600. The resolution in my wide screen lap top is best viewed at 1920x1200. Because of the technology used to create the images you see on these newer lcd monitors you really have no choice but to use the resolution for which it was designed. Basically, the optimal resolution for a flat panel these days is the same as the highest resolution that monitor can display. Here is a website with information regarding this issue: Physical Limitations of LCD Screens.

It is true the most affordable LCDs are not as good as regular monitors, but they are improving quickly. The average user (not web or graphics designer) should be fine with what is now available. I am buying all flat panels for my office from this point forward because they are lighter, and therefore, easier to move around. They take up less space so they allow the user more flexibility in setting up their work space in a ergonomically correct manner. 17 inch regular monitors are so big that they can't move the monitor back away from where they sit far enough for proper viewing and posture. To a secretary, this can have a big impact on their back and neck.

Edited: tenaheff on 6th Feb, 2004 - 7:54pm

Screen Resolution Gaming Video & Issues Computer

Interesting about the Flat LCD Screens, they are handy but they seriously lack in graphic quality. I did this site recently: https://www.ASBConsulting-tt.com and the owner, she uses this kind of screen said that she could not see the canvas background (creases that give it the paper look), but on my monitor they appear as bright as day. For this reason alone I am sure it will be a long time before I switch to LCD. I also operate using 800 x 600 but switch to 1024 x 768 to test how others see sites we create.

Resolution Screen

Since I use a laptop, I don't have any choice. I have a good quality one as well, but I have had to adjust to the small font and also the letters aren't as clear as with a crt monitor. I am adjusting though.

Edited: tenaheff on 7th Feb, 2004 - 2:12am

Resolution Screen

I have used that 'higher' resolution at an internet cafe before and I did not like it at all, it made all the web sites I visited look weird. Not to mention that most users ended up having to increase the font size (as you mentioned earlier) to see the lettering. Sometimes greater technology seems to take you one step back in other areas.

Screen Resolution

Yes, I agree. Also, older people with poor eye sight have trouble. Unfortunately, the young people doing the designing of systems, don't think about that. They just design them how the like them and the rest of us must assimilate.

Screen Resolution

We took into consideration the resolution an poor eyesight of some users and created the ability for Members to change the skin of this forum. Go Here. Those with highter than 800 x 600 screens may find it easier on the eyes.

Screen Resolution Computer Issues & Video Gaming

I use 1024x768 on a regular basis. I have good, high-quality monitors at home and at work, and I like to have more information on the screen at one time.

I switched to the new skin, and it is VERY nice.

NightHawk