Samsung announced the 90 and 30 Series of LCD monitors/high-definition TV hybrid devices that have sizes ranging from 21.5" to 24", and cater to consumers on a budget.
The new Samsung hybrid screens include 1080p support, built-in HDMI input and HDTV tuners, and a USB port for additional storage and multimedia support. Owners can watch movies, play music, and view photos from a USB flash drive, MP3 player, digital camera, and other popular portable products.
Samsung's 30 Series features the B2230HD (21.5"), B23330HD (23") and B2430HD (24"). The Korean company's 90 Series includes the lone FX2490HD (24") for now, but is expected to have additional models added in late 2010/early 2011.
The Samsung 30 Series models will be available starting next month with prices ranging between $269.99 and $329.99. The Samsung 90 Series will also launch next month, with initial pricing starting at $419.99.
Hybrid HDTV/LCD monitor products are becoming increasingly popular as consumers begin to purchase larger LCD screens and blend the Internet into their living room. These products appeal as monitors to use with a computer, but also double as a regular television for watching TV, movies and playing video games.
I like this new market segment of hybrid devices, especially for people who have small rooms (and dorm rooms) that have a limited amount of space. Sceptre also introduced an entry-level 27" LCD HDTV monitor -- and other manufacturers also have shown interest in this category of TVs. These products are often smaller than 30" in size, and prices should remain lower than mid-grade and higher-end HDTVs with the same screen sizes.
Does a combo monitor/HDTV sounds like a good idea to you?
