You should have mentioned that the Samsung (SyncMaster) 245T is next to impossible to get as well, as it seems that it is out of stock at retailers all over North America; just not here in Canada!
Perhaps the editor can confirm this, but as far as I can ascertain there is a difference more significant than looks between the Samsung 24" TN SM2443BW and the SyncMaster 2493HM, which is that the SM2443BW does not have an HDMI input where the 2493HM does, see: http://www.overclockers.c...duct.php?prodid=MO-100-SA
I spent two weeks to do research when I was in need of a new monitor in November 2008. I decided to purchase a NEC MultiSync LCD1990SX in the end and couldn't be happier :D !
The Samsung 214T is also worth mentioning for those who prefer the 4:3 aspect ratio. It still sells, in Europe at least, despite being a 3-year-old model.