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gaming monitors

Best Gaming LCD in September 2007: Samsung SyncMaster 226BW

In September 2007, the Samsung SyncMaster 226BW was a standout 22-inch gaming LCD, though panel variation, TN viewing angles and lag-measurement caveats mattered.

By VGSources Team 3 min read
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For a broad 22-inch gaming recommendation in September 2007, the strongest choice was the Samsung SyncMaster 226BW. Les Numériques described it as the most responsive 22-inch display it had evaluated and listed a 2 ms response-time specification at 1680×1050. That made it a compelling period pick—not proof that it was best for every player or that its stated response time equaled zero input lag.

Why the Samsung 226BW stood out

In its 2007 review, Les Numériques’ Samsung SyncMaster 226BW review praised the monitor’s responsiveness and color. Its verdict was that the 226BW was the most responsive display the publication had evaluated at that time, across screen sizes. This is a contemporary review judgment, not a modern comparison or a guarantee for every unit.

The reviewed model was a 22-inch TN LCD with a native resolution of 1680×1050 and a stated 2 ms response time. The 2 ms figure is a product specification; it does not establish real-world pixel-transition performance or input lag. Buyers should not treat a manufacturer’s response-time label as a complete measure of how quickly a game appears on screen.

Choose by the kind of gaming you prioritize

Large widescreen gaming: Samsung SyncMaster 226BW

The 226BW is the clearest fit for someone who wanted a comparatively large 22-inch widescreen display and strong period-reported responsiveness. Its native 1680×1050 resolution gives more desktop and game space than the smaller alternatives discussed at the time, but older games did not always support widescreen formats properly.

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#1 Best Overall
Samsung SyncMaster 226BW 22-inch LCD Monitor
  • 22-inch widescreen monitor offers a 160-degree vertical and horizontal viewing angle
  • Samsung MagicColor and 16.7 million colors deliver a clearer, brighter image
  • 3000:1 contrast ratio and 0.282-millimeter pixel pitch produce crisp, easy-to-view images
  • Samsung MagicBright3 and MagicTune functions create an optimum viewing environment
  • Dual interface (analog/digital) design also includes D-Sub 15-pin and DVI-D connections

Smaller screen and low reported lag: Samsung SyncMaster 206BW

Participants in a 2007 AnandTech discussion about fast LCD monitors considered the Samsung 206BW a low-lag option, including one reported zero-maximum-lag result. That is forum-reported evidence, not a definitive independent consensus; the same discussion included concerns about panel variation and buzzing.

Competitive play at a smaller size: 19-inch 2 ms TN monitors

One participant recommended the fast 19-inch TN class for hard-core gaming, naming the BenQ FP93GX and FP93GX+. This was advice in a forum discussion, not a comparative lab verdict. It reflects a trade-off: a smaller screen and potentially less emphasis on image quality in exchange for a focus on responsiveness.

Rank #2
Sale
Samsung 27” Odyssey G5 (G50F) Series QHD Gaming Monitor
  • Samsung’s 27” Odyssey G5 QHD Gaming Monitor delivers brilliant visuals for exhilarating gameplay that’s more immersive than ever before.
  • QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) boasts incredibly detailed, pin-sharp images.
  • With a wide 178° viewing angle, the IPS panel consistently delivers crisp, clear hues from various viewpoints.
  • 180Hz Refresh Rate and 1ms response time (GtG) allow fast reactions for ultra-smooth gaming, plus G-Sync compatibility syncs the GPU and panel to reduce choppiness, screen lag, and image tearing.
  • HDR10 provides brighter highlights and nuanced shadows for added depth.

Experimental 22-inch option: Iiyama ProLite E2201W

The E2201W was discussed as a promising 22-inch alternative, with a participant citing comparative ghosting and input-lag results. Another participant questioned the “0 ms” characterization and noted that the model was not then readily available in the United States. Treat those claims as period forum debate, not settled test results.

Image quality over minimum lag: NEC LCD20WGX2 or Dell UltraSharp 2007WFP

The AnandTech discussion distinguished the NEC MultiSync LCD20WGX2’s image quality from speed. A separate AnandTech comparison of the NEC and Dell displays discussed color and viewing-angle advantages for the Dell UltraSharp 2007WFP if the panel version was confirmed. These are options to consider when image quality matters more than choosing the most clearly documented low-lag model; the Dell discussion is panel- and region-specific.

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Rank #3
Samsung 27" Odyssey G5 (G51F) Series QHD (1440P) Gaming Monitor
  • QHD Resolution (2560 x 1440) has 1.7 times the pixel density of Full HD for incredibly detailed pinsharp images
  • HDR10 provides brighter highlights and nuanced shadow for added depth - making every scene feel more vivid and realistic
  • The 180Hz refresh rate minimizes lag for gameplay with ultra-smooth action. Plus, the 1ms response time helps capture your moves in real-time, allowing you to react fast for gaming precision
  • AMD FreeSync reduces choppiness, screen lag and image tearing, ensuring that your fast-paced, complex in-game action is stable with minimal stutter
  • Ergonomic stand allows for tilt, pivot and height adjustments to maximize gaming comfort

Trade-offs to weigh before choosing the 226BW

  • Panel variation: Les Numériques reported variation between panel versions, with behavior that could differ. The review does not support assuming every 226BW unit had identical image characteristics.
  • Viewing angles: The TN panel has viewing-angle limitations compared with the image-quality advantages discussed for other models.
  • Ergonomics: The review identified limited stand ergonomics.
  • Older-game compatibility: Some older games did not support widescreen formats, so a 1680×1050 display could require compromises in how a game was presented.

How to interpret 2007 refresh-rate and lag claims

Participants in the AnandTech discussion disagreed about whether LCDs operated above 60 Hz and whether higher refresh settings caused frame dropping. A reported 75 Hz setting by itself does not prove that the display showed unique frames at 75 Hz. The discussion is useful evidence of what buyers debated, but it is not a settled measurement standard.

When comparing these period recommendations, distinguish independent response testing from input-lag reports, and distinguish both from a manufacturer’s response-time specification. Also consider native resolution, screen size, color and viewing angles, panel consistency, stand adjustment, and whether the games you play support widescreen. No population-level study or statistic about gaming LCD performance is established by these period sources.

Rank #4
Sale
Samsung 27” (S40GD) Borderless Business Monitor with IPS Panel
  • VIVID COLORS ACROSS THE WHOLE SCREEN: Experience stunning colors across the entire display with the IPS panel. Colors stay bright and clear across the screen, even when angles change. Tones and shades are represented consistently with less color washing.
  • SMOOTH PERFORMANCE ACROSS ANY CONTENT: Stay in the action when playing games, watching videos, or working on creative projects. The 100Hz refresh rate reduces lag and motion blur so you don't miss a thing in fast-paced moments.*
  • OPTIMIZED GAME SETTINGS FOR EACH GENRE: Gain a competitive edge with optimizable game settings. Color and image contrast can be adjusted to see scenes more clearly, while Game Picture Mode adjusts any game to fill your screen with every detail in view.**
  • EASY ON THE EYES: Protect your vision and stay comfortable, even during long sessions. Stay focused on your work with reduced blue light and screen flicker.**
  • FLEXIBLE ADJUSTMENTS: A slim design adds style to any environment, with a height-adjustable screen to give you the best angle and more versatility. Ultra-thin border bezels make the most of screen space, and you can even pivot the screen for a vertical view.
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What the period price does—and does not—tell you

One AnandTech participant quoted a price of $279.99 after rebates on September 1, 2007. That is a single post’s period price, not a market average, recurring price, or present-day value. No current used-market listing, condition, or price is established here.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
Samsung SyncMaster 226BW 22-inch LCD Monitor
Samsung SyncMaster 226BW 22-inch LCD Monitor
22-inch widescreen monitor offers a 160-degree vertical and horizontal viewing angle; Samsung MagicColor and 16.7 million colors deliver a clearer, brighter image
$189.00
SaleBestseller No. 2
Samsung 27” Odyssey G5 (G50F) Series QHD Gaming Monitor
Samsung 27” Odyssey G5 (G50F) Series QHD Gaming Monitor
QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) boasts incredibly detailed, pin-sharp images.; HDR10 provides brighter highlights and nuanced shadows for added depth.
$169.99
Bestseller No. 3
Samsung 27' Odyssey G5 (G51F) Series QHD (1440P) Gaming Monitor
Samsung 27" Odyssey G5 (G51F) Series QHD (1440P) Gaming Monitor
Ergonomic stand allows for tilt, pivot and height adjustments to maximize gaming comfort
$149.99
Bestseller No. 5
Accessory USA AC Power Cord Cable Plug for Samsung SyncMaster 205BW B2030 20' LCD Monitor, Samsung SyncMaster 225BW 226BW Widescreen LCD Monitor
Accessory USA AC Power Cord Cable Plug for Samsung SyncMaster 205BW B2030 20" LCD Monitor, Samsung SyncMaster 225BW 226BW Widescreen LCD Monitor
This Adapter is a Brand New, High Quality Never USED (non-OEM); Note:please make sure the model of your device before buying
$8.99
Best Value
Accessory USA AC Power Cord Cable Plug for Samsung SyncMaster 205BW B2030 20" LCD Monitor, Samsung SyncMaster 225BW 226BW Widescreen LCD Monitor
  • Safety: Our Products are CE / FCC / RoHS certified, tested by the manufacturer to match and / or exceed the OEM specifications. OVP, OCP, SCP Protection (OVP: Over Voltage output Protection. OCP: Over Current output Protection. SCP: Short Circuit output Protection)
  • This Adapter is a Brand New, High Quality Never USED (non-OEM)
  • Compatibility: AC Power Cord Cable Plug for Samsung SyncMaster 205BW B2030 20" LCD Monitor, Samsung SyncMaster 225BW 226BW Widescreen LCD Monitor
  • Note:please make sure the model of your device before buying

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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