As a MacBook Pro user, you will find that choosing the best monitors for MacBook Pro can make a huge difference to your productivity and viewing experience.
Whether youâre a creative professional, a coder, or just someone who likes a bigger screen, this guide will help you choose the best external monitor for your MacBook Pro.
Key Things to Consider
Resolution and Display Technology
When choosing an external monitor for your MacBook Pro resolution is key. High pixel density is crucial for achieving sharp images and detailed imagery, making it essential for tasks that require crisp font rendering.
Most modern MacBook Pros support 4K (3840 x 2160) or 5K (5120 x 2880) resolutions. Look for monitors that match or beat your MacBooks native resolution for super sharp images.
IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels are generally the best for colour accuracy and wide viewing angles. For creative professionals consider monitors with mini-LED or OLED for better contrast and colour performance.
Colour Gamut and Accuracy
If you work in graphic design, photo editing or video production, picture quality and colour accuracy are key.
Look for monitors that cover a wide colour gamut, such as 100% sRGB, Adobe RGB or DCI-P3. Some high end monitors are even factory calibrated for colour accuracy out of the box.
Connectivity
Make sure the monitor you choose has the right ports to connect to your MacBook Pro. Most recent models use USB-C or Thunderbolt 3/4 for video output.
Additionally, having multiple USB-A ports is crucial for connecting various peripherals like keyboards, mice, and external drives, enhancing overall functionality. Look for monitors with USB-C ports that can deliver power so you can charge your MacBook while itâs connected.
Top Picks for MacBook Pro External Monitors
Overall: LG UltraFine 5K Display
The LG UltraFine 5K Display is designed for MacBook Pro users. 5120 x 2880 resolution, P3 wide colour gamut and Thunderbolt 3 means itâs the perfect choice for an Apple like experience.
When compared to an apple monitor like the Apple Pro Display XDR, the LG UltraFine 5K Display offers similar high-end features and performance, though at a more accessible price point.
Best for Creatives: Apple Pro Display XDR
For those who want the very best, Apple’s Pro Display XDR has the ultimate colour accuracy and brightness. 6K resolution and extreme dynamic range makes it perfect for high end video and photo editing.
Best Budget: Dell U2720Q
The Dell U2720Q is an excellent macbook pro monitor with great 4K performance at a lower price point. IPS panel, 95% DCI-P3 colour coverage and USB-C means itâs a great all-rounder for MacBook Pro users on a budget.
Best Ultrawide: LG 34WK95U-W
If you prefer an ultrawide setup the LG 34WK95U-W has a 5K2K resolution (5120 x 2160) in a 21:9 aspect ratio. This gives you plenty of screen real estate for multitasking and still a sharp image.
Additionally, its USB-C connectivity enhances usability by allowing easy device charging and improved accessibility with a single-cable solution, making it ideal for MacBook Pro users.
Setting up your external monitor
Once youâve chosen your monitor setting it up with your MacBook Pro is easy:
- Connect the monitor to your MacBook Pro with the correct cable (usually USB-C or Thunderbolt).
- Many monitors, like the Pro Display XDR and Apple Studio Display, offer three USB-C ports, allowing you to connect various peripherals directly to the monitor.
- Your MacBook should detect the display automatically.
- Open System Preferences > Displays to adjust resolution and layout.
- For best performance use the scaled resolution marked as âDefault for displayâ.
Calibrate your monitor regularly to maintain colour accuracy especially if youâre doing colour critical work.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external monitor for your MacBook Pro will make a big difference to your work and entertainment. Consider your needs, budget and what you do when you make your choice.
Whether you go for the ultra high res of the LG UltraFine 5K, the professional grade Apple Pro Display XDR, the budget friendly Dell U2720Q, or the Apple Studio Display with its 5K resolution, integrated webcam, and superior audio quality, any of these monitors will be a big upgrade to your MacBook Pro.
Remember, the best monitor for you is one that fits your workflow, meets your technical requirements, and falls within your budget.
