Apple are usually one to set the standard, but this time they seem to be chasing it with the announcement of their new 27 inch LED Cinema Display. Apple’s range of IPS computer monitors (the cinema displays) only recently came in LED-backlit flavours – resulting in lower power consumption, a brighter image and no warmup time after powering on the monitor. Over the years we have seen a gradual shift to larger computer screens (as well as TVs) and many manufacturers now offer 24 inch models and some 27 inch monitors. The latter size has gathered increasing popularity recently at the low end and the high end. Manufacturers such as Iiyama, Acer, Samsung ASUS and HannsG all provide strikingly affordable 27 inchers – but they are all somewhat limited by their 1950×1080 (full HD) resolution. Dell dominates the high-end with their 2560×1440 (WQHD) 27-inch UltraSharp U2711, although NEC and HP also provide some premium monitors of this size.

Apple has jumped in at the premium end, offering a 27 incher with pleasing specifications. Sharing the stunning 2560×1440 resolution and IPS panel technology with the Dell and then adding an LED backlight to the mix is surely a winner as far as image quality is concerned. Additonal features such as the iSight camera (very clever) and built in microphone and speakers are also welcome. The monitor also provides an ambient light sensor to adjust the image brightness according to the lighting in the room – although you probably guessed that from the sensor name, anyway. The only thing that may be worrying to some, aside from the pricetag (999 USD or probably >£700 in the UK) is the iResponse time of 14ms. Although this may seem staggeringly high compared to some other PC Monitors of late, it is actually the ISO response time that is being given here and not grey to grey. Apple’s new object of iDesire is set to launch in September for 999 USD – if you can afford it, it is a very attractive and high performance computer monitor. If not you could always sell your iPhone.

Apple LED Cinema Display 27