If you use a 15-inch monitor, one of the best tools to improve productivity can be a larger model. Larger monitors can dramatically improve productivity by allowing the user to view more on the screen at one time and reduce the amount of scrolling needed. And with 17-inch monitors available for as little as $300, larger monitors are no longer a luxury.

Monitor size generally refers to the diagonal measurement of the screen. Screens are typically grouped into five categories: 14 inch, 15 inch, 17 inch, 19 inch, and 20/21 inch screens.

Unfortunately, this diagonal measurement does not translate to the size of the image you actually see. A significant amount of the screen is hidden behind the monitor's plastic frame, or bezel. If you actually measure the exposed glass, it is usually about 0.5-1 inch less than the advertised size.

In addition, most manufacturers set the display so it does not reach the very edge of the exposed glass. This is because it is technically difficult to obtain a sharp picture in the corners. The resulting black border takes up additional screen space, often reducing the actual display by as much as two inches when compared to the listed screen size.

This buying guide is designed to give you the facts you need to purchase the right monitor for your business. You can choose to read this guide from beginning to end, or jump directly to a section of interest by clicking on the links above.