Best Calibration tool ?

Firstly, I have no clue where this thread should belong..
The title says it all, there are spyder and some other brands but I am clueless which is accurate and worths the bucks.

As I am planning to get a Clevo soon and the resellers let customers opt a one time screen calibration for $40. (I believe they use Spyder). I don't know if that's a good service in terms of $. Because I guess I can get a calibration tool for my own for just a bit more $

 

spyder is the brand standard.

 

Can you be more specific vicious

 

He means this, I believe

Datacolor - Global Leader in Color Management Solutions

 

As a service cost it doesn't seem too bad, but the point of calibration is that you do it on a regular basis - it's not something static. i.e. it depends on factors such as where (as in what lighting environment) you're using the machine that actually needs the colour accuracy, state of the panel, etc.

If you aren't going for calibration simply on the basis of insurance then it's a better idea to buy a Spyder3 Express. It's double the service but you can use it over and over again. However does have some limitations - worth reviewing the product details just to make sure you're OK with buying the single-monitor Express.

 

Thanks for the answers. So express is for one monitor only ? What is the difference between Elite vs Pro (and can I use them on multiple monitors ?)

 

I am busy saving up for a pro myself , see link below for a feature comparison.

Spyder3 Solution Comparison Chart - Datacolor - Global Leader in Color Management Solutions

 

If you only use your laptop and don't use any external monitors or such,

the Express is a nice compromise and it only costs $66 at Amazon.

I myself am waiting for the eBay Bucks to come in so that I can scoop one up on eBay though.

 

An Spyder 3 express on UK Amazon costs £84.99 that`s $131.46 US Dollars

 

Certain models of the spyder3 variants use the same puck (the physical device that you attach to the screen) and differ only in the software provided.

The current best colourimeter for consumer-grade is the i1display pro and the cheaper colourmunki display. Both use identical pucks but differ in software. They are ID-tagged however therefore you cannot use the colourmunki puck on the i1display pro's software.

Lastly, consumer grade calibrators, or colourimeters will lose their inherent calibration over time (span of years) due to natural filter degradation or from mistreatment of the device. They can be sent back to the factory for recalibration. If you get one, store it in a cool, dark and dry place (drawer works well) to prolong its lifespan when not in use.

 

Thanks for the new thread. Was considering this myself for a laptop screen, external monitor and also plasma TV. Would the Pro work for all 3 types of devices?

Amazon has a rebate for them right now for -$20 (Pro), -$30 (Elite) rebate...Elite seems to offer a ton of other stuff I know nothing about.

I also see the old models of the i1display go on sale and was wondering if those are still worth buying on the cheap?

 

The difference between Elite and Pro is only the software, hardware is the same
Pro should be enough for most people.