The Dell U2711 can only be described as a monster, with a monster spec and unfortunately a monster price tag. Then again, although it is cheaper than modern 30in monitors such as it's big brother, the Dell 3008WFP which retails for around £1,100. However, 30in screens are quite unwieldy and large, even if the high resolution is hugely desirable. The U2711 offers a great compromise between physical size and screen space, and with its IPS panel should offer great visuals too.

The U2711 sports an unusual resolution of 2,560 x 1,440, which is 160 fewer pixels in the vertical plain than your average 30in monitor; this is due to the 16:9 ratio rather than the 16:10 ratio that would yield 2,560 x 1,600 pixels. Before the 16:10 vs 16:9 flame wars start, spare a thought for the fact you still have a height of 1,440 pixels, which is a substantial upgrade from the 1,080 or 1,200 of a 24in screen.