Flat panel monitors reduce light reflection and give a sharper, more accurate picture. Steve Baker, senior hardware analyst for PC Data says "they give a better picture, they take up less space and they look good."
According to Stanford Resources, it is the monitors' price that continues to hobble the technology.
Baker says prices for CRT monitors have dropped significantly "in the last year or so" and despite a drop in the price of flat panel monitors, the older technology still represents a far cheaper option.
One source, who requested anonymity, believes flat panel monitors will continue to play exclusively in niche markets - such as dealing rooms - unless a major manufacturer lowers the prices "dramatically".