The classic arcade experience is deeply tied to its visual presentation, and the type of display used is a fundamental part of that. The key difference lies in the core technology: analog displays, specifically Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) monitors, versus modern digital displays, like Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD). This distinction impacts everything from image quality to authenticity.

Analog CRT monitors were the original standard. They work by firing electrons onto a phosphor-coated screen, creating light. This analog process results in a continuous, fluid image without a fixed pixel structure. The most notable characteristic of CRTs is the presence of scan lines—fine, dark horizontal lines that were a byproduct of the electron beam scanning the screen. For games designed in the pixel art era, these scan lines actually enhanced the image by blending colors and softening the blocky edges of pixels, creating a richer, more organic look. CRTs also boasted exceptional motion clarity with virtually no motion blur, making fast-paced action games look smooth. However, they are bulky, heavy, prone to flicker, and require regular maintenance and calibration.

Digital LCD displays, now common in modern arcade cabinets and home setups, function digitally. They use a fixed grid of pixels that light up individually to form an image. This provides a razor-sharp, bright, and consistent picture with perfect geometry. LCDs are thin, lightweight, energy-efficient, and have no risk of screen burn-in. Their major drawback for retro gaming is their inherent digital precision. They display each pixel as a distinct, sharp block, which can make vintage pixel art look harsh. The smooth blending and color softening of a CRT is lost. Furthermore, LCDs suffer from motion blur due to slower pixel response times, and native low-resolution signals from old arcade boards must be upscaled, often introducing input lag and imperfect scaling artifacts that degrade the original experience.

In summary, the choice is a trade-off between authenticity and convenience. An analog CRT offers the true, intended visual experience with organic blending and flawless motion but demands more space and upkeep. A digital LCD provides a clean, sharp, and practical solution but can compromise the original artistic intent and fluidity of classic arcade games. For pure preservation, the analog CRT remains unmatched.