When it comes to deciding on a monitor for your Mac it can be hard to choose from the vast array of options. And if you are connecting to a Mac laptop and want an external monitor that will match the quality and resolution of your built in display, things get more complicated again.
There are multiple factors to consider, such as screen size, resolution, colour modes, connectivity and design. And if you are connecting to a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro you will want to make sure to get a monitor that will charge your laptop as well. A high-quality, well designed monitor can really enhance your productivity and improve your overall computing experience. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best 27 inch 5K and 32 inch 4K monitors for Mac users.
4k or 5k, and why?
A few years ago, most of us would have been happy with an ”HD” monitor – 1980 x 1080 pixels. That was the resolution of “high definition” televisions and it became the standard for monitors as well. But display technology has moved on and the displays in MacBooks, monitors and televisions are commonly at least 4K now. So if you’re used to looking at 4K displays elsewhere, an HD external monitor for your Mac is going to be disappointing.
4K is a very common monitor resolution currently, and so you will get the most options, and lower prices at that spec. 5K monitors are largely a Mac phenomenon, and so the range is smaller, and because of that the prices are higher too.
27 inch 5K monitors
Apple Studio Display
Apple’s Studio Display is an excellent option for those who want a high-quality display that is designed specifically for Mac users. This 27-inch display features a 5K resolution of 5120 x 2880 with 600 nits of brightness, providing sharp, vibrant colours and crisp text. The monitor has a sleek, minimalist design that complements any workspace and features one Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port that delivers high-speed data transfer and laptop charging and three USB-C ports.
The Studio Display comes with a built-in 12MP Ultra Wide camera, studio-quality three-mic array, and high-fidelity six-speaker system with force-cancelling woofers, making it ideal for video conferencing and communication. It also supports Wide colour (P3) and True Tone technology, offering a wider range of colours for your content creation needs.
Apple Studio Display is available with a tilt-adjustable stand, tilt and height-adjustable stand or a VESA mount adapter. An anti-glare nano-texture glass option is also available. So it can be configured for any situation.
With its powerful and versatile features, the Apple Studio Display is a great choice for anyone looking for a premium display that is designed to work seamlessly with their Mac.
LG 27″ UltraFine 5K IPS
The LG 27″ UltraFine 5K IPS is another great option for Mac users. This monitor features a 5K 27-inch display with a resolution of 5120 x 2880, providing incredibly sharp and detailed images. The monitor has an IPS panel that offers accurate colours and a wide viewing angle, making it ideal for photo and video editing. It also features a Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C port that delivers high-speed data transfer and charging, as well as a built-in camera and speakers.
The UltraFine 5K IPS has a sleek design that complements any workspace and features an adjustable stand for comfortable viewing. The monitor also features DCI-P3 99% colour space for premium colour reproduction and a low-reflective treatment that reduces glare and reflections. With its high resolution, accurate colours, and versatile features, the LG 27″ UltraFine 5K IPS is a great choice for creative professionals.
32 inch 4K monitor options
LG 31.5” UltraFine Ergo Monitor with UHD 4K IPS Display
Featuring a 31.5” UHD 4K IPS Display with breathtaking clarity and HDR10 and DCI-P3 95% for premium colour reproduction. The LG 3105″ UltraFine Ergo monitor features a clamp stand to achieve ideal screen position and maximise user comfort and USB Type-C ports for greater productivity.
Boasting a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160, Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, and a built-in USB Type-C hub, this monitor delivers stunning visuals and seamless compatibility with Apple devices. The sleek, ergonomic design, featuring a fully adjustable clamp stand, ensures optimal comfort and reduces eye strain, making it perfect for long work sessions.
ASUS ProArt Display PA329CV
The ASUS ProArt Display PA329CV is a professional-grade monitor that offers a high level of performance and features. This 32-inch display features a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 with 100% sRGB and Rec. 709 colour gamut, providing accurate colour for content creation. The monitor also supports HDR10 and features a peak brightness of 400 nits, making it ideal for viewing high dynamic range content.
The ProArt Display PA329CV has a sleek design and features an adjustable stand for comfortable viewing. It also features a variety of connectivity options, including USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort.
Ultra-Widescreen Monitors
An ultra-widescreen monitor can provide an immersive and engaging viewing experience, making it an ideal choice for gaming, video editing, and other creative tasks. One excellent option is the LG 40WP95C-W. This monitor features a 39.7-inch display with a resolution of 5120 x 2160, providing a wide viewing angle and detailed images. It supports HDR10 and features a peak brightness of 300 nits, making it ideal for viewing high dynamic range and includes Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.0, HDMI and DisplayPort ports.
Which is right for you?
Ultimately choosing an external monitor comes down to personal taste, workflow and budget. If you are happy with a 27 inch display, there are a couple of great 5K options. If you need a 32 inch or larger display, there are numerous 4K models to choose from. Talk to Mac Aid about the latest monitor options for your situation and your Mac.
