BenQ RL2455
A gaming screen of a different nature.
While most LCDs are focused entirely on FPS gamers, the BenQ RL2455 recognises that many also want to play other titles. That’s not to say the BenQ can’t be used for any game, but it is specifically designed with real-time strategies in mind. The 24-inch screen has a very typical 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, using a TN panel with a 1ms GTG response time.
Since super-high frame rates that invite tearing are not the focus, the screen doesn’t include any adaptive frame rate tech and sticks with good old 60Hz.
By default, the RL2455 uses a RTS pre-set, designed for StarCraft II. Since we hadn’t been trounced online in a while, it was also a good place to start testing. The idea behind the screen is that everything from the colours to the contrast ratios are designed to make it easier to see individual units and keep track of frantic RTS gameplay, and input lag is kept to a minimum.
As it turns out, the RL2455 is noticeably easier on the eyes for RTS gaming, and still works just fine for other titles. Of course, the TN panel is nothing special, but colours are strong, and it’s bright and even. The monitor has dual HDMI, DVI and D-Sub, plus a headphone jack, and a basic tilt only base.
For those who play a lot of RTS games, the specialised BenQ RL2455 is worth the investment, but it’s a hard sell for those who would prefer to get some other bells and whistles for their money.