Acer took the market by surprise this afternoon by launching a new line in computer LCD range. The five models of the xSeries focus on gaming and video with quick response times. Topping the company's list is the X241Wsd. Although a 24-inch, 1920x1200 screen, it achieves a quick 5ms average pixel response time and a healthy 1,000:1 contrast ratio. Its price is part of its selling point, Acer says: at $600, it becomes one of the most affordable screens in its class.

Launching with the deluxe screen are the 22-inch X221Wsd ($280) with a 1680x1050 panel and the same 5ms response time; the 19-inch x191Wsd ($190) with a 1440x900 widescreen and 8ms responses; and two standard-ratio displays, the 19-inch x191sd ($200) and 17-inch x171s ($180) with 1280x1024 resolution. Video input choices weren't mentioned but are likely to involve HDCP-compatible DVI given their new Windows Vista certifications. All five are available soon.