The Viewsonic VX2433wm is a 23.6in monitor with a native resolution of 1,920 x 1,080. Its glossy black chassis looks impressive, while the matte coating on the screen ensures that reflections are kept to a minimum.

With a 16:9 aspect ratio and a dynamic contrast ratio of 20,000:1, the VX2433wm is particularly well suited to video playback. And, thanks to its 2ms response time, blurred images are kept to a minimum.

Two 2W speakers provide adequate audio, while input connection options comprise VGA, DVI-D and HDMI. It's HDCP-compliant, so will be able to display copy-protected HD content via the DVI connection if required. There's also a 100mm x 100mm Vesa mount, making it suitable for bolting to an office reception wall, for example.

A disappointment in terms of ergonomics is that the monitor is only tilt-adjustable, which means that height adjustments can only be performed by placing it on a separate stand.

The on-screen menu is navigated using four small buttons on the right side of the chassis. Options include the ability to turn off the dynamic contrast ratio, along with an Eco-mode feature that aims to reduce power consumption as well as extend the life of the backlight.

With the Eco-mode setting switched off, we measured a power draw of 42W. This dropped to 34W when switched to Optimize mode, while the Conserve mode saw a further dip to 27W. It's not the most sophisticated of features, though, since we managed to achieve the same reductions in power draw simply by altering the brightness. Furthermore, it's not possible to lock the display to a specific power mode, which may disappoint IT managers looking to reduce overall power consumption across a workgroup.

Overall performance is good, and the VX2433wm produces vivid colours and clear, sharp text. Viewing angles are acceptable, but the screen does get noticeably paler when viewed from a side angle.

The fact that the stand isn't height-adjustable is disappointing, but on the whole the VX2433wm performs well and is good value at just over £200.