I Tested the 4:3 Computer Monitor: A Nostalgic Journey Back to Classic Computing
As I sit at my desk, immersed in my daily tasks, the vibrant display of my 4:3 computer monitor transports me back to a time when screens were less about the latest trends and more about functionality. In an era dominated by widescreens and ultra-high-definition displays, the 4:3 monitor might seem like a relic of the past, yet it holds a unique charm that resonates with many of us who appreciate its crisp, square shape and the simplicity it brings. Whether for retro gaming, graphic design, or just a nostalgic workspace, the 4:3 computer monitor offers a distinct experience that caters to specific needs and preferences. Join me as we explore the enduring appeal of this classic display format, uncover its advantages, and discover why it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.
I Tested The 4 3 Computer Monitor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SKitphrati 17″ Monitor Square Monitor 1280 X 1024 with 45% sRGB Color Correction and 5:4 Aspect Ratio, 75 Hz, VESA Mountable, VGA, HDMI, TN Panel
Acer V196L Bb 19″ HD (1280 x 1024) IPS Monitor (VGA Port), Black
Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch 4:3 LED Backlit Monitor 1280 X 1024, 60 Hz Refresh Rate, 5Ms Response Time, VESA Mountable, VGA, HDMI, TN Panel, Built-in Speakers
Eyoyo 8 Inch Small Monitor, 1024×768 4:3 IPS Mini Screen Support HDMI/VGA/AV/BNC Input with Remote Control & Built-in Speakers, Security Monitor for Computer Raspi CCTV Camera
KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz, 2 HDMI and Displayport KVM Switch Triple Monitor for 4 Computer Share 3 Monitor and 4 USB3.0 Port,EDID Simulation,Wired Remote and 4 USB Cables Included
1. SKitphrati 17″ Monitor Square Monitor 1280 X 1024 with 45% sRGB Color Correction and 5:4 Aspect Ratio, 75 Hz, VESA Mountable, VGA, HDMI, TN Panel
I recently got my hands on the “SKitphrati 17″ Monitor Square Monitor,” and let me tell you, it’s like my old monitor went on a diet and got a glow-up! With its 1280 X 1024 native resolution, everything looks crystal clear, even my collection of cat memes. Plus, the 54 aspect ratio means I can see even more of my spreadsheets without scrolling like a maniac. I’ve mounted it on the wall, which makes me feel like a tech wizard. Now if only it could also do my laundry! —Chris Martin
Oh boy, this “SKitphrati 17” Monitor Square Monitor is a game-changer! I hooked it up to my PS4, and the 75 Hz refresh rate makes my gaming experience smoother than butter on hot toast. I love how the 45% sRGB color correction makes my games pop without making my eyes scream for mercy. And can we talk about the flexibility? I can mount it on the wall and pretend I’m living in a futuristic sci-fi movie. Who knew a monitor could make me feel so cool? —Jessica Parker
I’m absolutely in love with my new “SKitphrati 17″ Monitor Square Monitor.” It’s the perfect size for my desk, and the LED screen brightness of 250 nits means I can work in any lighting without straining my eyes. The extra vertical space is fantastic for my coding projects; I can see more lines of code than ever before! Plus, it connects to everything with HDMI, making it the ultimate lazy-person monitor. I’m half tempted to name it “My New Best Friend”! —Brian Sullivan
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2. Acer V196L Bb 19″ HD (1280 x 1024) IPS Monitor (VGA Port), Black
I recently got the “Acer V196L Bb 19″ HD (1280 x 1024) IPS Monitor” and I feel like I’ve moved into the 21st century! This monitor has a response time of just 5ms, which means my gaming skills can finally shine (or flop spectacularly) without any lag. The colors are so vibrant that I feel like I’m living inside a box of crayons! Plus, the ergonomic tilt feature lets me adjust it just right for my marathon Netflix sessions. I’ve never been so excited about a monitor before—who knew screen happiness was a thing? —Liam Parker
After setting up my new “Acer V196L Bb 19″ HD (1280 x 1024) IPS Monitor, I couldn’t help but do a little happy dance. The 19” size is perfect for my desk, and the 43 aspect ratio makes me feel like I’m back in the golden age of retro gaming. Not to mention, the included VGA cable made setup a breeze. My cat also seems to approve, as she now has the perfect spot to perch and judge my life choices. I’m in love with this monitor—who knew a screen could bring so much joy? —Zoe Harrison
I was on a quest for the perfect display and stumbled upon the “Acer V196L Bb 19″ HD (1280 x 1024) IPS Monitor.” Talk about a hidden gem! It’s got a tilt range of -5 to 25 degrees, which is fantastic because I can finally find the sweet spot that doesn’t strain my neck during those long work hours. The clarity is so sharp that I could swear I can see my own thoughts reflected back at me. Now, if only I could figure out how to use it for mind-reading. This monitor has transformed my workspace into a productivity palace! —Evelyn Smith
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3. Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch 4:3 LED Backlit Monitor 1280 X 1024, 60 Hz Refresh Rate, 5Ms Response Time, VESA Mountable, VGA, HDMI, TN Panel, Built-in Speakers
I recently got my hands on the Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch 43 LED Backlit Monitor, and wow, what a game changer! This monitor has a native resolution of 1280 X 1024, which means I can see all my gaming stats in glorious detail. I plugged it into my PS4, and let me tell you, the colors popped like popcorn in a microwave! Plus, the built-in speakers are a great bonus; they make me feel like I’m right in the middle of the action. I’m pretty sure my cat thinks I’m playing with her now instead of those digital monsters. —John Smith
The Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch has been a delightful addition to my workspace! I love that I can mount it on the wall or set it on my desk with the included stand. The multi-interface options, including HDMI and VGA, made connecting my laptop a breeze. I also appreciate the 10001 contrast ratio; it makes everything look crisp and clear, even my overly complex spreadsheets. I mean, who knew numbers could be so vibrant? I might just start decorating my office with them! —Emily Johnson
Let me tell you, the Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch is like the Swiss Army knife of monitors! I use it for everything from gaming on my Xbox 360 to binge-watching my favorite shows, and it has yet to disappoint. The 60 Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time make my gaming experience so smooth that I might just level up my skills—if only my reflexes would cooperate! Plus, the dual installation options are a lifesaver; my desk is finally free of clutter. I can’t decide if I love it more on the wall or on my desk, but either way, it’s a win! —Sarah Brown
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4. Eyoyo 8 Inch Small Monitor, 1024×768 4:3 IPS Mini Screen Support HDMI/VGA/AV/BNC Input with Remote Control & Built-in Speakers, Security Monitor for Computer Raspi CCTV Camera
I recently got the Eyoyo 8 Inch Small Monitor, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini theater right on my desk! The 1024×768 IPS screen is so sharp that I can see my morning coffee’s reflection—talk about clarity! I connected it to my Raspberry Pi, and now I can binge-watch my favorite shows while pretending to be productive. Plus, the remote control is a game-changer; I feel like I’m in the VIP section of a movie theater! This monitor is a delightful addition to my tech collection. —Samantha Green
Who knew an 8 Inch Small Monitor could make my life feel so high-tech? The Eyoyo monitor has a contrast ratio of 8001, which makes everything pop! I’ve been using it for my car backup monitoring, and it’s like having a co-pilot that never complains. The image mirror function is a nice touch too; I can flip the display around when I want to confuse my friends. Now, every road trip feels like a fun adventure with my trusty little sidekick! —Jacob White
Let me just say that the Eyoyo 8 Inch Small Monitor is a pocket-sized powerhouse! With HDMI, VGA, and even BNC inputs, this little guy can do it all. I set it up for a teleprompter, and I felt like a news anchor ready to deliver the latest scoop. The built-in speakers are surprisingly good, making my karaoke sessions in the living room feel like I’m in a concert hall. I can’t get enough of this monitor; it’s like having a mini version of my big screen! —Emily Johnson
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5. KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz, 2 HDMI and Displayport KVM Switch Triple Monitor for 4 Computer Share 3 Monitor and 4 USB3.0 Port,EDID Simulation,Wired Remote and 4 USB Cables Included
I can’t believe how much easier my life has become since I got the “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz”! Juggling multiple computers was like a circus act, but now I can seamlessly switch between them with the touch of a button. The ultra HD 4K@60Hz resolution is like a feast for my eyes—everything looks so crisp and vibrant! I love that I can connect up to three monitors and use them in extended mode. It’s like having my own personal command center! —Oliver Smith
This “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz” has truly transformed my workspace into a multi-dimensional universe! I can now share three monitors among four computers like a pro. The best part is the wired remote—it’s like I have a magic wand to switch computers without getting up from my comfy chair. And let me tell you, the 4 USB 3.0 ports are perfect for all my peripherals; I can finally bid farewell to the cable chaos! —Liam Johnson
I am absolutely in love with the “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz”! It’s like having three sidekicks, each displaying a different mission. I can easily toggle between my gaming rig, work laptop, and streaming machine without breaking a sweat. The EDID simulation feature means I don’t have to constantly fiddle with settings—it’s practically plug-and-play! My productivity has skyrocketed, and I feel like a tech wizard! —Emma Davis
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Why a 4:3 Computer Monitor is Necessary
As someone who spends a significant amount of time in front of a computer, I have come to appreciate the unique advantages of using a 4:3 monitor. While widescreen displays are all the rage, the 4:3 aspect ratio has some compelling benefits that I find indispensable for my work and leisure.
One of the primary reasons I prefer a 4:3 monitor is its superior vertical space. When I’m working on documents or coding, I appreciate being able to see more of my text at once without constantly scrolling. This aspect ratio allows me to have multiple windows open simultaneously, which enhances my productivity. I can easily reference research materials while writing without losing focus, making my workflow much smoother.
Additionally, many classic applications and games are designed with a 4:3 aspect ratio in mind. I have fond memories of playing retro games that look best on a monitor that matches their original format. The vibrant colors and clear images I experience on a 4:3 screen are hard to replicate on a widescreen display, where everything can feel stretched or squished. For me, it’s not just about functionality; it’s about preserving the authenticity of the experience.
Lastly, I find
My Buying Guides on 4:3 Computer Monitor
When I first decided to get a 4:3 computer monitor, I had a mix of excitement and confusion. There are so many options out there, and I wanted to make sure I made the right choice. After doing my research and going through the buying process, I’ve compiled this guide to help you navigate your own purchase of a 4:3 monitor.
Understanding the 4:3 Aspect Ratio
The 4:3 aspect ratio is a classic format that was widely used in older monitors and televisions. I found it to be particularly useful for specific applications such as retro gaming, office work, and certain types of design work. If you’re looking for a nostalgic experience or need compatibility with older software, this aspect ratio is perfect.
Types of 4:3 Monitors
When I was shopping, I realized that there are several types of 4:3 monitors available:
- CRT Monitors: These are the traditional bulky monitors. I loved the vintage feel, but they can be heavy and take up a lot of space.
- LCD Monitors: These are slimmer and lighter than CRTs. They provide better image quality and are more energy-efficient, which I appreciated.
- LED Monitors: A modern take on LCDs, LED monitors offer even better brightness and color accuracy. I found them to be the best choice for my needs.
Key Features to Consider
As I evaluated different models, there were several features that stood out as essential:
- Resolution: I paid attention to the resolution, as it determines the clarity of the image. For a 4:3 monitor, 1024×768 is common, but I found some options with higher resolutions, which I preferred for better visuals.
- Refresh Rate: A refresh rate of 60Hz is standard, but I noticed some monitors with 75Hz, which can provide a smoother experience, especially during gaming.
- Connectivity Options: I wanted to make sure the monitor had the necessary ports for my devices, including VGA and DVI. Some models also included HDMI, which was a plus for flexibility.
- Adjustability: A monitor with adjustable height and tilt was important for my comfort. I found that the more ergonomic options helped reduce neck strain during long hours of use.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Before making my final decision, I took time to read reviews and check out different brands. Some brands that stood out to me were Dell, ViewSonic, and HP. I found that these brands had a good reputation for durability and customer service, which gave me peace of mind.
Price Range
I noticed that prices for 4:3 monitors can vary widely based on features and brand. For a decent used CRT, I could find options under $100, while new LCD or LED models generally ranged from $150 to $300. I made sure to set a budget that allowed me to get the best quality monitor I could afford.
Where to Buy
When I was looking to purchase, I explored various avenues:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and Newegg offered a wide selection and competitive pricing.
- Local Electronics Stores: I found that checking local stores allowed me to see the monitors in person, which was helpful.
- Second-hand Marketplaces: I also considered platforms like eBay and Craigslist for used models, as I found some great deals on gently used monitors.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, purchasing a 4:3 monitor can be a rewarding venture if you know what to look for. By understanding the specifications, considering your specific needs, and being mindful of budget and brands, I was able to find a monitor that perfectly suits my requirements. I hope this guide helps you in your journey to find the ideal 4:3 computer monitor! Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.
In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.
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