BenQ E900WA
The E900WA belongs to the new monitor series from BenQ. That’s good because the widespread FP9xx series models we have repeatedly tested in our labs are overall rather boring and alike to each other as well as to other brands’ products.
The specifications suggest that it is yet another widescreen LCD monitor based on a TN matrix without response time compensation.
The designers’ job is obvious to the eye. The E900WA differs dramatically from the dull gray rectangles of BenQ’s previous models. I wouldn’t say I like everything in this exterior design, yet it is remarkable. The slim case made from black matte plastic is nicely complemented with a light band at the bottom. There are blue LEDs shining in that band when the monitor is in sleep mode. Quite a nice thing, but some people may not like this kind of a night lamp. If you are among them, you can use the Power button placed at the bottom center of the front panel. It is the single control element that does not reside on the side of the case.
The monitor has inherited its stand, perhaps somewhat more elegantly shaped now, from BenQ’s previous models. This simple square stand only allows you to change the tilt of the screen. It can be replaced with a VESA mount – you can find the necessary screw holes at the back of the case.
This sample is equipped with an analog input only although the model may come with a DVI interface (it doesn’t have the letter A at the end of the model name then). There is also a connector of the integrated power adapter and an audio input of the integrated speakers here. A headphones socket is located on the right panel. I would prefer to have it on the left panel, though. Most people have the mouse on the right, and the headphones cable may get in the way.
The monitor’s controls are located on the side panel. They are just the right width and are accompanied with clear icons on the front panel, so I have no complaints about them. Quick access is provided to the sound volume setting, to the automatic adjustment feature, and to switching between the preset image modes (BenQ calls them Senseye+Photo).
This is the standard menu of BenQ’s latest series. It is handy and offers all the necessary settings. The only drawback is that it doesn’t remember the last changed option and that some menu items (such as the color temperature option) require too many presses to get to.
