I used to use a 20-inch Dell that rotated vertically -- it was great because I could see a lot of code at once, but I noted that I didn't usually view more than

I used to use a 20-inch Dell that rotated vertically -- it was great because I could see a lot of code at once, but I noted that I didn't usually view more than one window at a time because I'd just keep one maximized. Then I switched to a Mac, and found that no matter what size screen I use, I've grown comfortable with multiple windows on the screen. I saved my money for a LONG time to buy an HP 30" monitor, and I love it. I can keep several open side-by-side at the same time, which I've found extremely useful. It seems to have helped my productivity a lot. That said, you don't need a 30" screen to see the benefits of a (relatively) larger monitor. A 24" monitor would be great as well IMHO -- that is, if you can get used to the side-by-side window effect. If you prefer only seeing one window at once, perhaps consider two smaller monitors instead, and then you can have one window maximized on each. YMMV, of course. It really depends on your workflow and how you like to focus on things.