CNET's top-rated sub-$200 monitors

I don't like to misuse the word "cheap," so I won't. Instead, I'll just say that the Asus VH236H is one of the best monitor deals out there.

(Credit: Josh P. Miller/CNET)

I request a lot of monitors from various manufacturers without always taking into account their retail costs. Sometimes, I'm just much more excited about posting a review of the latest, greatest, coolest monitor, than I am about the cheapest.

Thing is, most users simply don't care about the latest, greatest, coolest monitor. Most simply want something that's low-priced and does what it does (shows pictures of whatever they're attempting to display) well enough that they don't notice any problems.

I've gotten plenty of feedback lately requesting such information. "What is the best monitor for normal office work and occasional movie watching? My budget is $175-$225. ByeiiiEE!"

OK, I added the "ByeiiiEE!" but, here today, to quench your penny-pinching thirst, are my picks for the five best monitors that won't run you more than $200 (before shipping/taxes of course).

Be sure to always check out more monitor reviews here as well.

[macksumum]

you can get some really great deals on open box monitors at newegg. i bought an ASUS VW246h monitor that was an open box item and i only paid about $140 not including shipping.this monitor is 24 inches and 1920x1080p.

I just bought an acer 23 inch widescreen and love it.Model # x233Hbd from tigerdirect.com

[AaronCT123]

That ASUS is an amazing monitor for sure, I bought mine sometime in August and it's a real pleasure to use.

[gimcrackpictures]

Serious oversight from this list. Just about a month ago I purchased a HannSpree HF237. It's a 23" full HD LCD for 199 retail. I have been so pleased with this purchase. This company needs to gain more recognition. Asus is great as are all the others, but this is the first monitor that has lived up to everything I need at a price I can touch. Despite this exclusion, great article overall!

Funny that this is posted, right after I've had my own hunt for a low-priced good quality monitor. I actually ended up getting that Asus, or at least one very similar to it. I think mine might be 24'' inches. Anyway, took a chance with Tiger Direct (never ordered from them before) and got the thing here in about 4 days for $211, including tax and shipping. (cheapest shipping)