External monitor options For Macbook Pro(2011)

Just curious as to what my monitor options are as a external monitor for the Macbook Pro.  I'm pretty much set on 27'' thunderbolt display but its a hefty price to swallow...
Best buy has some good deals on there 27'' monitor but can i get the same resolution and clarity from other brands that will be eqivalent to Apple?
I'd like to stay in the 27'' to 30'' size...
thanks

Any other options like Samsung, LG etc... that offer the same specs as the thunderbolt display? 
Thanks

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