Monitors and photo viewing

[snap]

How does one choose a good computer/monitor for picture viewing? I have a two year old Dell computer. When I view my pictues on a friend's new Dell, the colors are much more vibrant and appear like the printed photes (using a professional printing service). But, the pictues on my monitor look not so vibrant, and not as good as the printed pictures. What are the key factors to look at in trying to change/upgrade from what I have: graphics card? Monitor? Other?

[goose2]

It could very well be the video card or graphics card check the system info on both computers and see if it has a higher quality card.
A friend and I ordered our Dell's at the same time. we compared them and the only difference he ordered a higher price video or graphics card I can't remember which and his pictures are much better then mine.

[cdifoto]

It's also quite possible your monitor just needs calibrated.