The biggest factor you'll want to look for is the response. 16ms is pretty much the minimum, quicker time is always better, to prevent 'ghosting'. I have a dell 2001FP 20" with 16ms response, have no problems at all. As far as the picture, it is far clearer, and more vivid with the color,(im using the DVI input).....A high contrast number will make that more pronounced. Only bad part is the price, mine was $800 about 6 months ago, it's probably a bit cheaper now. I chose this monitor after hours of research, primarily because it is the smallest LCD with a 1600x1200 resolution, I'm sure there are others that can fit your price range with similar specs.
