7 Best Monitors for MacBook Pro for Graphic Design
If you're a graphic designer, you know that a great monitor is essential to your toolkit. A good monitor will give you the clarity and colour accuracy you need to create stunning designs.
In this article, we will look at some of the best monitors for MacBook Pro. We'll also explore a range of monitors that are perfect for graphic designers and professional use.
So whether you're looking to upgrade your old monitor or invest in your first one, read on for the best recommendations!
Table of Contents
Will any monitor work with a MacBook Pro?
The answer to this question depends on what you mean by “work.” Any monitor can be connected to a MacBook Pro, but not all monitors will be compatible with all of the laptop's features.
For example, Apple's monitor is designed to work with MacBooks, including features like an integrated Thunderbolt 3 and a built-in XDR display. However, it's also significantly more expensive than other options on the market. If you're looking for a cheaper option that will still work well with your MacBook Pro, there are several online resources about the best laptop monitors.
In general, most users seem to prefer monitors that offer a high resolution and a wide colour gamut. However, ensuring that your monitor is compatible with the ports on your MacBook Pro is essential. Otherwise, you may need to invest in an adapter to connect the two devices.
Are Samsung monitors suitable for MacBook Pro?
There is no simple answer to whether or not a Samsung monitor is suitable for MacBook Pro. It depends on several factors, including what you will use the monitor for and your personal preferences. However, some general things to remember when considering a Samsung monitor for your MacBook Pro.
First, Samsung monitors are generally very high quality and offer various features that can be beneficial for users. They also tend to be compatible with Macs with a matching video connection, so you should have no problem connecting your MacBook Pro to a Samsung monitor. Additionally, Samsung monitors come in various sizes and prices, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs and budget.
Ultimately, whether or not a Samsung monitor is suitable for MacBook Pro depends on personal preference. But if you are looking for a high-quality, compatible monitor that offers a variety of features, then a Samsung monitor is worth considering.
Do I need an Apple monitor for my MacBook?
If you're a Mac user, you've probably wondered whether you need an Apple monitor for your MacBook Pro. After all, there are a lot of great monitors out there that are compatible with Macs. So what's the verdict?
For the most part, you don't need an Apple monitor for your MacBook Pro. Any good quality monitor will do. However, there are a few exceptions. You may want to splurge on an Apple studio display if you're a professional photographer or graphic designer. These monitors are specially calibrated for colour accuracy, making them ideal for photo and video editing. Best of all, they're compatible with Macs and PCs if your PC has a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port.
So if you're just looking for a good general-purpose monitor, any old monitor will do. But if you need something with top-notch colour accuracy, an Apple studio display is the way to go.
What do I consider before buying the best MacBook Pro monitor?
Here's what to consider before buying the best monitors for MacBook Pro:
Multiple monitors
When looking for the best MacBook Pro monitor, you first consider how many monitors you need. One monitor is usually sufficient if you're just using a laptop for personal use. However, if you're using a laptop for graphic design, school, or working from home, you may need a dual monitor setup or three monitors. This will allow you to have multiple windows open at the same time and to stay organized.
Connections
The second thing to consider is what kinds of connections you need. Most monitors come with HDMI or DisplayPort connections, but some older models may only have DVI or VGA. Make sure your monitor is compatible with your MacBook Pro before purchasing.
Different ports to look out for:
HDMI ports
HDMI port stands for “High-Definition Multimedia Interface” and is used for HD video and audio.
DisplayPort ports
Similar to an HDMI port, a DisplayPort is also used for HD video and audio.
DVI ports
DVI stands for “Digital Visual Interface” and is only used for HD video. You'll need a separate connection to hear sound.
VGA ports
VGA, “Visual Graphics Array, ” links a computer to a display device. This is an older technology that's slowly being phased out and being replaced with HD video connectors like HDMI
USB A ports
It stands for “Universal Serial Bus Type-A.” USB A ports are used for charging devices and transferring data.
USB C ports
A USB C port, “Universal Serial Bus Type-C, ” is used for transferring data and charging devices. USB C ports are the latest USB connector type and are smaller than other types of USB.
You may want to invest in a USB hub for more USB ports if your device doesn't come with everything you need.
What makes a good monitor?
Regarding monitors, there are a few key factors to keep in mind.
First, the picture quality is essential for any monitor, especially if you plan on using it for graphic design and making digital art. Good picture quality will have crisp lines and clear colours.
Second, screen size and having sufficient screen real estate is another important factor to consider. A larger screen will give you more screen real estate to work with, but it will also take up more space on your desk. Consider getting a widescreen monitor, which will give you more screen real estate than a standard monitor if you have the space.
Third, a refresh rate is essential when working with large files or anyone who needs a fast response time. A higher refresh rate will result in a more seamless work experience.
Pay attention to the amount of hertz (Hz – units of frequency) a monitor has. The standard refresh rate for desktop monitors is 60 Hz. However, in recent years, specific monitors have become popular for their immersive experience and higher refresh rates. Many monitors now have a refresh rate of 144 Hz or even 240 Hz, ensuring an exceptionally smooth experience for even the most demanding visual processing needs.
Ultimately, your best monitor will depend on your needs and preferences.
Best Monitors for MacBook Pro
1 – Apple 32-inch Pro Display XDR
Best Apple monitor
Specifications
- Screen Size: 32-inch
- Resolution: Retina 6K (6016 x 3384 px)
- Brightness: Up to 1600 nits
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Ports: 1 x Thunderbolt 3, 3 USB-C ports
Top Features
- Exceptional image quality that creates uniform colour and brightness across the entire screen
- Meets the standards of creative professionals by going through the state-of-the-art colour calibration
- Great brightness power delivery (up to 1600 nits) without ever dimming
- High LED and LCD pixel density to bring your work to life with outstanding accuracy
- Thunderbolt ports (1 x Thunderbolt 3) to easily connect with your MacBook Pro
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) that takes brightness, colour, and contrast to a new level
- 32-inch LCD display with Retina 6K resolution (6016 by 3384 pixels)
- Pro Stand and VESA Mount Adapter sold separately
- Extreme Dynamic Range (XDR)
- Brightness: 1000 nits sustained, 1600 nits peak
- Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
Overview
Are you looking for a new display to take your graphic design to the next level?
The Apple Pro Display XDR is perfect for anyone who wants a fantastic viewing experience. With its industry-leading brightness that goes up to 1600 nits, contrast, and colour accuracy, this display will take your work to the next level.
You won’t find another display like it on the market today. It’s not just a fantastic product but also an incredible experience you can have for every new project.
2 – Apple Studio Display
Most anti-reflective
Specifications
- Screen Size: 27-inch
- Resolution: 5K Retina Display
- Brightness: 600 nits
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Ports: 1 x Thunderbolt 3, 3 USB-C ports
Top Features
- Great USB C connectivity with 3 x USB-C ports that allow you to connect and charge your devices (keyboard, mouse, or iPhone)
- Very low glare with a nano-textured option for outstanding image quality even in bright lighting conditions
- A13 Bionic chip power delivery enables a full set of monitor features like Studio Display features like Center Stage, Spatial Audio, and “Hey, Siri.”
- Six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio for an immersive sound experience that makes you feel like you have your own personal movie theatre
- It pairs perfectly with the MacBook Pro (as well as the MacBook Air and Mac mini) to create an astonishingly powerful and compact duo
- It uses an ambient light sensor to automatically adjust the display's colour temperature to match your environment for a natural viewing experience that is easy on the eyes
- Immersive 27-inch 5K Retina display with 600 nits of brightness, support for one billion colors, and P3 wide color
- 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage for more engaging video calls
- Studio-quality three-mic array for crystal-clear calls and voice recordings
- Six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio for an unbelievable listening experience
- One Thunderbolt 3 port, three USB-C ports
Overview
If you're looking for a great computer monitor, look no further than the Apple Studio Display.
The Studio Display is packed with features that make it the perfect choice for anyone looking for an immersive viewing experience. With its slim design and anti-reflective coating, you’ll be able to focus on what’s on the screen without any distractions.
Everything looks incredible on this display, from watching movies and playing games to editing photos and working on your latest design project. The colours are so vibrant that you won’t be able to take your eyes off them. Plus, with minimal glare, you’ll be able to work longer without straining your eyes. You can't go wrong with the Apple Studio Display.
3 – Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 27 Inch 4K UHD
Sharpest details
Specifications
- Screen Size: 27-inch
- Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
- Brightness: 350 nits
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI, 2 x USB C connectivity
Top Features
- Up to 90W of power delivery through USB C connectivity so your laptop stays charged and your productivity is uninterrupted
- Ability to tilt, swivel, pivot, and adjust the height so you can make the most of your limited desk space with the best portable monitor
- The high pixel density of 163 PPI and 4K UHD, which is better than Full HD
- It meets the latest environmental standards along with eco-friendly packaging that you'll feel good about
- Exceptional colour depth with 1.07 billion colours
- Dell Display Manager's (DDM) Easy Arrange feature lets you tile and organize your applications for the most productive workflow
- Create an efficient workspace with the Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 27 inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) LED Backlit LCD IPS USB-C Monitor (7GZ651)
- Sleek design – 27 inch diagonal 4K UHD IPS screen with vibrant 3840 x 2160 resolution and thin profile that supports virtually seamless multi-display setups
- Exceptional visuals – see consistent, vibrant colors across a wide viewing angle enabled by In-Plane Switching (IPS) technology
- Experience simple, convenient connectivity – work with your most frequently-used devices with DisplayPort, HDMI, USB ports, and Audio Line out
- Display Features: Tilt, Swivel, Pivot, Vesa Mount Compatible, Anti-glare, USB Hub, LED Backlights, In Plane Switching, Security Lock Slot, Energy Star Certified, 99% sRGB color gamut
Overview
If you are looking for a new monitor, you'll want to consider the Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 27 Inch 4K UHD.
It has an outstanding colour depth of 1.07 billion, excellent peak brightness, and a high contrast ratio of 1300:1. Images are displayed in true-to-life colour with sharp details, even in dark shadows or brightly lit areas.
With 4K resolution and a high pixel density of 163ppi, you will get four times more details than Full HD on this monitor. You won’t find another monitor out there with this much detail.
4 – BenQ PD3220U 32 inch 4K Monitor IPS
Most accurate colours
Specifications
- Screen Size: 32-inch
- Resolution: 4K UHD
- Brightness: 300 nits
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Ports: 1 x Thunderbolt 3, 2 x USB C connectivity
Top Features
- BenQ delivers the excellence that creative professionals expect
- It comes with a convenient USB hub for added connectivity for all of your devices
- Two USB C ports for seamless and lightning-fast data transfers with 85 W of power delivery
- Preview the HDR10 effect that gets great results efficiently while video editing
- New KVM switch that auto-pairs and allows you to switch between systems easily while boosting your efficiency
- Darkroom mode so you can easily adjust the brightness to match your environment if you are working in low-light
- Made for Designers: 32″ 4K monitor features Pantone Validated and Calman verified color accurate technology. Experience 95% P3 and 100% sRGB color coverage with Delta E ≤ 3. Built with M-Book mode which features Mac compatible color matching.
- ICC Sync Compatible with Display P3: The ICC Sync simplifies the color mapping process and can be completed in 1 second through the BenQ Display Pilot software.
- Daisy-Chain Technology: Free up your desk space and say goodbye to clutter thanks to the daisy chain connectivity capabilities! Seamlessly connect your computer/laptop to create a multi-monitor setup.
- Thunderbolt 3: Synchronizes images, videos, data and charge all of your Mac devices with an all-in-one cable!
Overview
Looking for a monitor showing your colours how they're meant to be seen?
BenQ has you covered with the PD3220U. This monitor has HDR10, giving you a better picture and allowing you to see colours more accurately. With Thunderbolt 3, you can easily connect all of your devices and their data to this one monitor.
You'll never have to worry about adjusting your colour settings again with M-Book mode. This mode will automatically adjust the colour settings on your monitor to match those on your Mac computer. Plus, this monitor will look great in any workspace with its sleek design.
Without a doubt, the BenQ PD3220U is an exceptional choice for your MacBook Pro monitor.
5 – Acer SB220Q
Sleekest design
Specifications
- Screen Size: 21.5-inch
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Brightness: 250 nits
- Refresh Rate: 75 Hz
- Ports: VGA and HDMI
Top Features
- Only 6.6mm thick, making this the sleekest and most portable monitor
- IPS panel technology that allows you to share what's on your screen without affecting the colours
- Frameless design for maximum visibility and wide viewing angle
- Full HD resolution for clear, colourful, and sharp images and graphics
- Reduce eye strain and enjoy the most comfortable visual experience with AcerVisionCare technology
- 2W Speakers that are integrated into the device for high-quality audio whenever you want to listen to your favourite playlist
- 21.5 inches Full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen IPS display.Specific uses for product – Business, personal
- And Radeon free sync technology. No compatibility for VESA Mount
- Refresh rate: 75 hertz – Using HDMI port
- Zero-frame design; Ultra-thin; 4ms response time; IPS panel
- Ports: 1 x HDMI & 1 x VGA
Overview
The Acer SB220Q not only looks great, but it has a wide viewing angle and more. It’s got a frameless design with thinness that's only 6.6mm, so it will look great on any desk.
IPS technology lets colours stay consistent no matter where you view them. Plus, the integrated slimline speakers provide incredible audio for whatever playlist you have in queue to motivate yourself while you work.
You deserve to enjoy your screen to the fullest with improved visibility and maximum colour accuracy. That’s why the Acer SB220Q comes with AcerVisionCare™, which incorporates several technologies to minimize eye strain. So you can use this monitor for hours on end without fatigue.
6 – LG 34BK95U-W 5K UltraWide 34″
Best ultrawide monitor
Specifications
- Screen Size: 34 inch
- Resolution: 5,120 x 2,160
- Brightness: 600 nits
- Refresh Rate: 75 Hz
- Ports: 2 x HDMI ports, 2 x USB C, Thunderbolt 3, DisplayPort
Top Features
- Best ultrawide monitor with a generous screen that’s ideal for content creators and those who multitask
- 5,120 x 2,160 screen resolution perfect for programmers, developers, editors, and designers
- Clear and bright HDR 600 display for a lifelike picture with bold contrasts
- High-end picture quality for the most accurate and vibrant colours
- A variety of ports to ensure your MacBook is compatible and data transfers are effortless
- Single cable Thunderbolt 3 connectivity to ensure a clear workspace without messy cables
- 5120 x 2160 Resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, 5 ms (GtG) Response Time, Thunderbolt 3 / HDMI / DisplayPort 1.4 / USB Type C Inputs, Built-In Speakers, Ultra-thin bezel for slim and sleek design
- 1200:1 (Typ) Contrast Ratio, 450 cd/m2 Brightness, 178 degree/178 degree Viewing Angles (CR≥10), 10-Bit (8bit+A-FRC), DCI-P3 98% Color Gamut (CIE1931), 0.0518 (H) x 0.1554 (V) mm Pixel Pitch
- Windows: Plug and play for PCs with compatible graphics cards supporting 5K2K such as the 2080ti for gamers. Use DisplayPort 1.4 or Thunderbolt 3 USB-C for full 5120 x 2160 resolution
- Apple: Plug and play with thunderbolt 3 with 2016 and 2017 models. 2018 MacBooks may require an update to the recent Mac OS X 10.14.2 Beta for thunderbolt to work
Overview
The LG 34BK95U-W 5K UltraWide monitor is perfect for anyone who wants to do more with their screen. With its large size and high resolution, this monitor gives you plenty of space to work on multiple tasks simultaneously. Plus, the HDR 600 rating ensures that your pictures look fabulous no matter what you’re working on.
You won’t find another ultrawide monitor like this one on the market today. It offers unparalleled picture quality and convenience thanks to its single-cable Thunderbolt 3 connectivity.
So if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line multitasking experience, this is the perfect monitor for you.
7 – Samsung 34-inch CJ791 Curved
Most detailed picture
Specifications
- Screen Size: 34 inch
- Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440
- Brightness: 300 nits
- Refresh Rate: 100 Hz
- Ports: 2 x Thunderbolt 3, 2 x USB C ports, HDMI port, DisplayPort
Top Features
- Monitor offers an exceptional picture
- Quickly and easily connect your MacBook Pro to the USB C port to instantly create a workstation to get more done
- The curved display panel is designed for comfort, productivity, and style for minimal eye fatigue
- Virtually frameless design, so you see more screen and less frame
- Wide viewing angles ensure a clearer and more crisp picture
- Ergonomic and fully adjustable to ensure the most comfortable viewing experience when working on bigger projects
- THUNDERBOLT 3: The CJ791 features 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports to connect compatible Macs and PCs; Thunderbolt 3 transmits video and data at speeds of up to 40Gbps — 8x faster than USB 3.0 — and simultaneously charges devices (up to 85W) over a single cable
- MULTIPLE INPUTS: With 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports and DP, HDMI and USB inputs, the CJ791 provides many connection options for PCs, consoles and external devices; Built-in 7W stereo speakers offer enhanced entertainment when viewing videos and playing games
- 34″ ULTRA WIDE SCREEN: Ultrawide curved display with 21:9 aspect ratio provides all the workspace you need to multitask efficiently and in comfort; Forget about inconvenient dual monitor set ups and experience truly seamless multitasking
- CURVED FOR COMFORT: The curved screen is engineered to follow the natural curve of your eyes for a more immersive and comfortable viewing experience
- PBP AND PIP: Picture-by-Picture (PBP) lets you display to 2 sources onscreen at their native resolution; Optimize your multitasking further with Picture-in-Picture (PIP) and resize the 2nd source to up to 25% of the screen and position it anywhere
Overview
If you're looking for a fantastic curved monitor, look no further than the Samsung CJ791.
Its ultra-wide curved monitor is perfect for anyone looking for a high-quality picture in a sophisticated design. This monitor delivers vibrant colour and fine detail with cutting-edge Quantum Dot (QLED) technology and WQHD resolution. And with Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, you can easily transmit digital display and power through a single cable connection free of clutter.
You'll love the virtually frameless design that allows you to see more screens and fewer frames. The wide viewing angles ensure a clearer and more crisp picture. In contrast, the ergonomic and fully adjustable stand ensures the most comfortable viewing experience – especially when working on bigger projects for hours at a time.
Conclusion: What are the Best Monitors for MacBook Pro Right Now?
So, what are the best monitors for MacBook Pro?
Apple monitors do the trick, but various other compatible brands can also provide you with everything you need and more. This is especially worth considering if you are in the market for other high-quality monitors at different price points.
As mentioned, there are several key features to remember when looking for the best monitors for MacBook Pro. First, you must consider how many monitors you want to connect and what type of connections you need. From there, it's crucial to look at the picture quality, screen size, and refresh rate to ensure you have an enjoyable and productive experience when using your external monitor with your MacBook Pro.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you, but we hope this article has helped you better understand what to look for when purchasing an external monitor for your MacBook Pro. Which monitor will you be using?
Author Bio: Janine Heinrichs is a graphic designer who writes at Janine Designs Daily. Her mission is to show people that the faster and more effective way to become a graphic designer is not by getting a degree; it's by being bold and putting your work out into the world. Her work has been featured on popular design sites like Creative Boom.
Last update on 2024-09-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
