Dell U2711 is quite nice, good IPS and anti-glare, but it's not cheap (800-1000 USD). But in my case I consider that money well spent.

At a recent Slashdot discussion a lot of people mentioned Yamasaki Catleap, it could be shipped from Korea where it's supposedly produced from 27'' panels rejected by Apple, but still usable. And it costs 340-400 USD with shipping.

As for the topic, it's really puzzling how people can use just laptops as their main work machines for code development. Right now I have about 6Mpixels at 100dpi of screen estate and I guess I could make use of another 4Mpixels. Good keyboard is also a must.

RPS had a nice write up in Feb.

http://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2012/02/22/hard-choices-the-...

I have an HP zr2740w (27", 2560x1440), just under $700. Nice screen, but it's pretty bare-bones. No HDMI or analog inputs (just displayport and DVI-D); no OSD (seriously - none!) and a pretty cheap stand. Overall, the extras in the Dell are probably worth the additional cost.

If you want really cheap, LG has some 23" (1920x1080) IPS panels for right around $200.

I'd say Dell Ultrasharp U2412M 24 inch IPS Widescreen LED Monitor 1920x1200 is the best for the money at the moment. Goes for $315 on amazon at the moment. Of course there are more expensive alternatives out there, not knowing your budget it's difficult to advise. I would definitely go for a higher rez though if the pocket allows.

I have a HP ZR24w that I've been super-happy with. I had some trouble with the stand and HP overnighted me a new one for free.

I recall it getting good reviews on AnandTech although I can't seem to find the link now.

NEC EA231WMi on ccfl, or its successor on LEDs. It is even cheaper than Dell 24" but for a reson - it is 23" 16:9. But it has comparable quality and being 25% cheaper I bought it.

I recommend the Catleap monitors, ~$310 shipped from Korea, same LG IPS screens as in 27" Apple Studio monitors.

Have been using mine with a MBA at home, love it.

The Dell Ultrasharps are a great value for the price. I picked up a refurb 24" for around $350 a few years ago, and it's served me very well.

Indeed, the Ultrasharps are pretty much unbeatable for the money. The 2312 and 2412 are especially attractive for the price and quality...