Windows 7 - Question re monitor types

This is maybe a silly question but I'm curious. I've only recently purchased my first ever HD ready 32 inch flat screen TV and discovered that apparently it can be hooked up to my PC.

What I'm thus wondering is whether it would be feasible to purchase another smaller screen size e.g. 20" TV and use it as a monitor? Is it possible for starters & secondly would it be overkill to some degree for someone who doesn't watch much TV anyway. I tend to watch any programmes I'm interested in either by Catch-Up or recording.

Is there likely to be a major difference in the cost and/or would it have driver issues etc?

Appreicate any input on the concept.
Thanks

TV will be about double the cost of a monitor in the same size. Monitors don't need any drivers.
TV has VGA & HDMI inputs.
Monitors have VGA, DVI & a very few now have HDMI inputs.
PC's have VGA, DVI, & HDMI outputs.

Maximum resolutions differ on all.

Native resolution on monitor & TV may differ. Operating outside of native causes image to be a bit blurry.

Exactly the info I was after - thanks so much for that. Gives me a better idea between the 2 - think I'll just stick to a monitor