E1705 UXGA or XGA+

I am going to get an E1705 and trying to decide which screen to get. I was all set to get the UXGA ultrasharp screen (which is what I have on my 3 year old Inspriron 8200) until I found out that this is a glossy screen. I have always used the matte screens and I am not sure if I like the glossy screen or not. It will be used 90% of the time in my home office. I use it for computer aided drafting that I use 3D modeling software for. Please give me some advice on which screen to get. I will be ordering tonight.
Thanks.

 

Here are my two options for consideration. Please explain the differences to me. I know the resolution differences, but what about the glossy versus matte etc....

Wide Screen XGA+ Display
UltraSharp™ Wide Screen UXGA Display with TrueLife™

 

I got the standard XGA+ screen and I have to say that it looks nice at first but after careful examination of it, it does have light leakage problems across the bottom.
It's only noticable on a black or dark blue screen, and I have to say I still wouldn't pay the extra money to upgrade the screen because it doesn't bother me that much.

 

When I got my WXGA I was scared.

but Actually, its a great screen. No problems here with it.

 

Well, any LCD can experience light leakage, even the WUXGA screens. I also have the WXGA+ (in the M90), and the resolution is actually better for me. A WSXGA+ would be nicer, but I think the WUXGA would be too small. As for glossy, you probably won't notice much glare if you're inside the office, but matte is definitely what I prefer. One thing you should know about 3D modeling, everytime I open Solid Edge on my machine, because it's a low resolution with a 17" screen, all the icons won't display on the screen. Just something to think about. You may use Solid Works instead, and I don't know how that works. I suggest going to a store and checking out some 17" there and see what you like.

 

I actually use Tekla Structures. It is a Steel Detailing software. On my current 15.4" ultrasharp matte screen I can set my resolution to 1600x1200(very sharp, but a little small) or 1280x1024(not as sharp and a little big). I stare at this thing for at least 8 hours every day, so the screen is very important to me. So, from what I understand the XGA+ screen on this model is matte, and the ultrasharp is glossy, Correct?

 

yea I think so.

 

Has anybody had experience with both screens and can give advice on the pros and cons of each?

 

I have the 1440x900 screen on my E1705. I like the fact that it is a non-glossy screen. The viewing angles on this screen are very narrow, probably the worst of any LCD I have owned. You really need to be directly in front of it with the lid angle set just right, otherwise it looks very washed out.

I got this one because I thought text on the 1900x1200 would be too small and I wanted to avoid the glossy display also. According to the specs, the 1900x1200 screen does have better viewing angles so it is a tough call.

 

Why yes, I had both! First, you may want to do a search through these forums, your question comes up a least once a week.

You mentioned CAD so the UXGA may be your guy. I run Volo View a lot so this can be helpful.

I have issues with both of the offered screens. So, as notebook ftw suggested, all i can offer is to find a Sams or Costco that may carry the 1705's. When buying make sure the 21 day grace period does not go by and that you discuss your return options with the Dell Rep.

 

Costco has a no questions asked 6 month return policy on computers, so you should be able to buy one and if you decide you don't like the screen return it.