Dell bows new-look S1909WX, S1709W LCDs

Dell brought the newer, rounded designs of its larger displays to the entry level on Tuesday by introducing the 19-inch S1909WX and the 17-inch S1709W. In contrast to the 16:9 ratio S2409W, the new LCDs use a more traditional 16:10, 1440x900 resolution but share design traits of their larger sibling, including a cleanly designed back and a detachable stand that lets owners use a VESA mount for display arms or walls.

The two displays vary widely in image quality and input. The S1909WX is intended for a wide audience and carries a 1,000:1 contrast ratio as well as 300cd/m2 brightness, with an HDCP-supporting DVI input providing video. The S1709W is tailored more to businesses and carries just a VGA connector as well as a more modest 600:1 contrast ratio and 250cd/m2 brightness for its smaller panel.

Dell is shipping both displays almost immediately with comparatively little difference in pricing: the S1909WX sells for $199, while the scaled-down S1709W drops the price only slightly to $179.