Why do LCD monitors cost more than a similar desk top CRT monitor?
The primary reason of the cost delta is volume. World-wide CRT volume is measured in tons of glass used. Flat panel display volume is measured in single units sold. CRT monitors have been in volume production for several decades. The flat panel displays have only recently achieved any type of volume and, as such, similar economies of scale have not been achieved. There are many items effecting the overall cost of an LCD monitor but the single biggest contributor is the flat panel display element and its addressing electronics. The cost of these is decreasing due to advances in their manufacture and their volume usage in laptops. The outlook is still for a price premium for the flat panel LCD version, but, over time, the savings over a CRT monitor in reduced power, and maintenance should bring them close in the end.
