Additional Monitor

Hey, just bought a new MacBook Pro today to replace my iMac. I do a lot of photo editing and needed the portability. That being said, I would like to get a monitor for my office. Now I don't need anything too big (no 30" display), but was looking for something around 24in. I found a few refurbished Apple displays that look nice, so my question is: Stick with an Apple display or find another brand? Also, what kind of cables would I need? Is VGA better than DVI?

Thanks guys and gals!