Why are computer monitors of similar size to regular HD television sets so much more expensive?

Question

Is there a real difference in quality of picture? If so, what is it? And if not, why such a huge price disparity?

Answer 1

Yes, there is a real difference in the picture quality between a computer monitor and a TV.  In order to display small text well, a LCD computer monitor has a higher density of pixels compared to a TV.  For example, a 40 inch 1080p HDTV has 55 pixels per inch.  A modern LCD monitor has 200 to 300 pixels per inch.  The higher pixel density is more expensive to produce but allows the monitor to display text clearly.