BenQ GW2265M Review

In recent times, I have had to spend too much time in front of the computer screen. Unfortunately, my eyes didn't like it very much, and I felt strained after 15-20 minutes of work. Therefore, I decided to buy a new monitor, specifically one without flickering (PWM backlight). As it turned out, the problem was deeper than I thought. Most modern monitors are illuminated by backlight, and the brightness changes with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation).

Monitors without PWM do exist (where brightness is controlled by voltage rather than pulses), but they are quite expensive, which is not affordable for a poor student like me. Luckily, budget models from BenQ had just appeared by that time. I chose the BenQ GW2265M. It had a lot going for it: the price (around $140), absence of PWM (called Flicker-Free technology), size (22"), and the MVA panel. However, I encountered a problem: I couldn't find any reviews that would at least mention the brightness levels (I was particularly disappointed by the lack of information about the minimum brightness).

So, I decided to buy the monitor at my own risk. In the end, I don't regret it. Now, I've decided to write a review.

So, this is the technological miracle that arrived in this box:

The package contents were not exactly what I expected, but they were different from what I found online. This is partly because it lacks an HDMI port (which I thought it had), but at this price point and for my needs, it's hardly a drawback.

In the end, the package includes:

1. User manual
2. Warranty card
3. VGA cable
4. Power cord
5. Stand, mount, and the monitor itself

The stand is attached to the monitor in a simple way:

About the ports: video signals - VGA and DVI connectors. Due to the presence of built-in speakers, there is a 3.5mm audio input jack and a headphone jack:

Wall mounting is possible: The adjustment buttons are located on the back and are mechanical: The power button lights up, but it is only noticeable from certain angles: And finally, the BenQ GW2265 monitor in all its glory:

And yes, the monitor really does not flicker. At all:

Summary of specifications:

To sum up. =) Conclusion: The monitor fully justifies its price. It is comfortable for the eyes. It cannot be compared to monitors that are 1.5 - 2 times more expensive but have TN panels and PWM flickering. It is perfect for work and movies. Honestly, I don't understand why people talk about the slow response time of the panel. I haven't noticed any "ghosting" - so I suspect it would be comfortable to play games as well. Pros:

• Price (~$140)
• Size (22")
• Panel Type (MVA)
• Truly flicker-free
• Brightness range - sufficient for comfortable work in any conditions

If I had to nitpick, although it's laughable to look for cons at this price point.

• Internal speakers - just a little better than the ones in my laptop
• The power cable needs to be connected tightly - just don't overdo it