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In this article, we’ll help you narrow down your choices and recommend the best monitor for MacBook. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right monitor for your needs
We tested many different monitors and analyzed their performance. Here are detailed reviews
Related: Best ultrawide monitor for productivity
What Are the Best Monitors for MacBook Pro in 2022?
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1. HP ENVY 34 Curved Display Ultra WQHD Curved Monitor – Best Monitor for MacBook Pro
Product Overview
- Brand HP
- Screen size 34 Inch
- Resolution 4K
- Display Tech LED
- Color Black/Silver
We analyzed HP is a market winner with its curved display 34-inch monitor. It is a standard size display, perfect for your office or home desk. The numbers of resolution and aspect ratio are also impressive with 3440 x 1440 and 21:9, respectively. It proves that the display performance and the image quality will be terrific with the appropriate numbers of pixels on the screen.
Similarly, to make the image look natural and true to life, it has a 99% of color gamut coverage, responsible for the vibrant color delivery. This feature has been an enormous requirement for content creators because it suits their needs, making it the best external monitor for MacBook Pro and Air. Besides, HP has the quality to adjust the screen resolution, contrast, colors, and dimming according to the display content.
The built-in camera in the middle of the screen allows you to make video calls; however, you can hide when not in use. Speaking of the front side, you can see a 3.5mm audio driver at the base, delivering high-quality loud sound to you. The speakers showcase a deep bottom with good dialogue clarity, which is missing in the MacBook monitor.
Moreover, the connectivity options are tremendous. It has an SD card reader, USB Type-C, and four USB 3.0 inputs. Also, there is a thunderbolt three-port, a headphone jack.
There is also an Ethernet port, HDMI. You can find these inputs on the back panel and the right side of the monitor. iMac offers poor connectivity, so it’s an appealing add-on from HP. It offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 for wireless connectivity.
Features
- Curved display.
- Powerful i7 processor.
- High storage formation.
- 6ms response time.
Pros
- Standard size for an office.
- 16GM RAM.
- Rich connectivity.
- Good audio quality with two passive drivers
- Excellent graphics.
- Built-in webcam.
Cons
- The display never allows wall mounting.
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2. Dell U-Series 38″ Screen LED-Lit Monitor
Product Overview
- Brand Dell
- Screen size 38 inch
- Resolution 4K UHD Ultra Wide 1600p
- Display Tech LCD
- Color Black
The expansive 38-inch screen gives you enough room to enhance your productivity. Dell is a known name for producing good quality monitors, and its new curved display monitor is one of them.
The big screen size allows you to open multiple tabs at once and give you enough room to create the content. Usually, gamers and content creators prefer this size of monitors, and iMac does not satisfy this need with its standard monitor size. So it would be a great choice, making it the best external monitor for MacBook Pro and air.
The IPS panel is a valuable add-on that is responsible for boosting brightness and provide wide viewing angles. Also, 4K UHD Ultrawide resolution and a 99% of sRGB color gamut area ensure you view an accurate picture on the screen.
Furthermore, the Dell U-Series 38-inch monitor is certified with TUV that makes the screen flicker-free and saves your eyes from extended use. The technology makes your working easy yet healthy for you.
The connectivity offers two HDMI, four USB 3.0 ports, one display port, and an audio out port if you need external speakers. However, the display integrates two built-in speakers that produce mediocre audio.
Features
- KVM feature
- USB type C port.
- Color accuracy.
- Wide viewing angles.
- Rich connectivity.
Pros
- Best for Multiuse.
- User-friendly.
- Flicker-free display.
- Curved display.
- Picture by picture mode.
- The hub of USB ports.
Cons
- The sound quality could be better.
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we also have compiled a list of the best monitors with built in speakers
3. LG Electronics 34UM88-P 34-Inch 21:9 UltraWide Screen
Product Overview
- Brand LG
- Screen size 34 inch
- Resolution QHD UltraWide 1440p
- Display Tech LCD
- Color Black
LG 34 inch is an incredible external monitor for MacBook pro for its simple yet attractive design. The standard size is perfect to fit on the home or office desktop, not consuming much space.
Besides, the monitor comes with a stand that supports enormous adjustments. It offers height and tilt adjustment, helping you get it to the proper position.
The ultra-wide quad HD resolution on the IPS display works wonders. Its pixel area is vast, making the images sharp and accurate with fine details. The display colors are rich and vibrant, with over 99% coverage of the color gamut.
This LG 34 inch external monitor is an excellent option for content creators who have to work for videos and picture editing. Besides, there is a color mode that allows you to convert between sRGB and Adobe RGB.
Likewise, the connectivity options will surprise you. Unlike other monitors at this price, LG offers two thunderbolts inputs, two HDMI, one display, and three USB ports. USB 3.0 port will save your time and charge your devices pretty quickly. Also, the on-screen control is user-friendly via mouse.
You can adjust different settings with few clicks in no time. You can control volume; screen split feature, brightness, color ratio, and different preset modes without pressing any buttons or putting an effort.
Speaking of features, it offers screen customization through screen split 2.0, which helps to divide the screen for multitasking.
It also has a Game mode that brings the necessary conditions to make your gaming experience smooth. It also offers Free-Sync tech to save the screen from tearing, pair with a graphic card to enhance the storage. Hence, it is overall the best monitor for MacBook.
Features
- USB 3.0 Quick charge.
- Free sync tech.
- Black stabilizer for dark scenes.
- Screen Split 2.0.
Pros
- Sleek design.
- Easy on-screen control.
- Plentiful connectivity.
- IPS panel.
- Accurate colors with sharp details.
- 60Hz refresh rate.
Cons
- There is no price info available.
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4. LG 27UK850-W 27″ 4K UHD IPS Monitor with HDR10
Product Overview
- Brand LG
- Screen size 27 inch
- Resolution 4K UHD 2160p
- Display Tech LCD
- Color White
Are you looking for a 4K high-end monitor with a fantastic performance at a reasonable price? Well. You are in the right place. LG 27 inch monitor with an IPS display is a convincing product for office use. The screen size and display are sensible, with tremendous performance.
The image quality is excellent with bright colors. The colors and brightness are on point, making the image full of life. Besides, it is calibrated by default with 99% color gamut coverage, and a 10-bit color depth is promising on the screen. All of these display features combine to create an accurate picture.
However, considering the screen size, you may see tiny objects on the screen, but after tuning, it can get better and crispier than ever.
Nonetheless, an IPS glow and a minimum backlight bleeding in this 4K monitor bring the inner beast. Unlike iMac, it also performs well for gaming purposes.
You can play video games on this best external monitor for Macbook pro and air as it offers 10ms of input lag and 5ms of response time. You can change settings from the OSD menu and set it according to your requirements.
Suppose you intend to use the monitor for long hours, no worries because the monitor has a flicker-free feature. It is responsible for keeping your eyes from the effect of the low-blue light. Moving on, you can find all the latest features in the 27Inch LG external monitor.
A black stabilizer option will make the screen visual bright and accurate even in dark scenes. Also, the OSD menu is user-friendly, helps you revise the settings without issues. It also allows a split-screen option for multitasking, giving you enough room to work on different projects simultaneously.
Finally, the monitor shows its value from the number of ports it offers. Hence, this affordable 27-inch monitor for Macbook offers two HDMI, display port 1.2, USB-C port, two USB 3.0 inputs, and a headphone jack for private listening.
Features
- Several HDR modes.
- Good motion handling.
- Accurate colors.
- Black stabilizer.
- Dynamic Action support.
- Screen split.
Pros
- Elegant design with standard screen size
- Two built-in speakers.
- Free sync.
- VESA support.
- 178-degree viewing angles.
- It supports HDR10.
Cons
- Only 60Hz refresh rate limit.
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5. Acer SB220Q bi 21.5 Inches Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Monitor
Product Overview
- Brand Acer
- Screen size 21.5 Inches
- Resolution FHD 1080p
- Display Tech LCD
- Color Black
It is a mini-size monitor, but it has a lot to offer, unlike MacBook Pro and air. Please do not judge it for its small screen size; it integrates the latest technology to satisfy your office and personal requirements
It comes with a sophisticated yet elegant design. The frameless border of the monitor makes it slim, giving extra space for the display. The thin display with the IPS panel makes the monitor interesting.
The IPS panel boosts the viewing experiencing by delivering wide angles, not compromising the performance from seeing the content from a distance. Also, the IPS panel has the potential to enhance the brightness level for better display quality.
Since the screen size is small, Acer covers this pitfall by boosting the brightness and launching a high-density pixel level for an accurate image. It also comes with supportive ergonomics that allows tilting from 5 degrees to 15 degrees at maximum.
Moreover, this best external monitor can be an all-rounder because it has gaming features to attract you. Besides the Aim point feature for several crosshair layers for FPS games, you will get a Black boost function for bright visuals in dark scenes.
The best external monitor offers around 10ms of response time, which you can later improve from the OverDrive feature. Likewise, FreeSync and various pre-calibrated picture preset modes also play a significant role in making your experience smooth and worthy.
Furthermore, the most critical offering of any monitor device is the number of connection opportunities. So, this best external monitor for MacBook pro and air has HDMI 1.4 ports, USB, VGA port, and a headphone jack.
Features
- 7m colors on the screen.
- Free Sync ranges between 48Hz to 75Hz.
- 16:9 aspect ratio.
- 1ms of visual response boost.
- Best for gaming.
Pros
- Amazing performance.
- Bezel-less frame.
- Picture presets mode.
- Black boost function.
Cons
- Limited connectivity.
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6. ViewSonic VX2758-2KP-MHD 27 Inch Gaming Monitor
Product Overview
- Brand ViewSonic
- Screen size 27 inch
- Resolution QHD Wide 1440p
- Display Tech LCD
- Color Color
ViewSonic 27 inch external monitor with outstanding image quality is the most affordable and elegant monitor in the market. The slim design makes the monitor striking, and the matte black finishing enhances the appearance.
It comes with a sturdy stand that allows tilting from 5-degrees to 15-degrees. However, it is VESA compatible, so that you can mount it on the wall.
Many professionals consider the 27-inch screen size as the standard one for office use. You can adjust the monitor on the desk, giving yourself comfort position to work through it.
Also, it offers DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4 and 2.0, a headphone jack, and an audio input for the built-in speakers. Besides, it is a budget-friendly monitor, though it uses an expensive IPS panel that brings 178-degree viewing angles.
1440p screen resolution and a high pixel density ensure the display objects are clear, details are accurate, and maximum screen space to get your work done.
The rich and vibrant colors cover 131% of the color gamut area, making the image full of life. Moreover, with 1ms of response time and VRR support, the overall performance of the monitor is beyond expectations.
It also features Free Sync with ranges between 48Hz to 144Hz, which also plays a vital part in the outstanding performance and smooth gaming experience. The black stabilization and other gaming modes can be utilized as an alternative.
Features
- ViewMode pre-calibrated picture preset modes.
- Black stabilization.
- High pixel density.
- 131% of sRGB support.
- Fast response time and VRR support
Pros
- Thin bezel design.
- Lots of connectivity.
- Rich colors.
- Peak brightness.
- Low input lag.
Cons
- Poor contrast ratio.
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7. BenQ 32 inch, 4K UHD Monitor, IPS Panel
Product Overview
- Brand BenQ
- Screen size 32 Inch
- Resolution 4K UHD 2160p
- Display Tech LED
- Color Black
Calling it an entertainment monitor won’t be wrong. It comes with a flat IPS panel, giving you different options for wall mounting or setting it on the desk. The 32-inch screen size would also allow you to multitask by opening several tabs at once.
The frame is simple, elegant, and looks stunning with matte finishing. The stand offers excellent ergonomics with tilt control. You can adjust the monitor and set it to the proper position for the uttermost control. However, at the back of the monitor, there are lots of connectivity ports.
It includes two HDMI 2.0 inputs, one DisplayPort, a USB Type-C port, and a headphone jack. USB C port enables the possibility to connect a laptop and charge it simultaneously.
Moreover, the on-screen display control is easy and lets you adjust the image, brightness, color, contrast, etc. It will also make you switch among the modes easily.
The BenQ integrates its technology of HDR support to stream HDR content more efficiently. The built-in sensor adjusts the screen brightness in different conditions.
The built-in speakers also deliver satisfactory audio performance. It might struggle to produce a deep bass response, but it is a good choice as a mediocre sound system. It also proposes a 60Hz refresh rate and AMD Free Sync support for gaming purposes. It will protect the screen from stuttering and let you play games smoothly.
Features
- Bi technology.
- Eye care tech.
- Color reproduction is convincing.
- KVM Mode.
- Darkroom mode.
Pros
- Free Sync support.
- HDR compatible.
- Plentiful connectivity.
- Flicker-free.
Cons
- Mediocre speakers.
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8. Dell UltraSharp U3415W 34-Inch Curved LED
Product Overview
- Brand Dell
- Screen size 34 Inch
- Resolution QHD UltraWide 1440p
- Display Tech LCD
- Color Black
Curved displays make their place in lots of office desks lately, as were not preferred in the past. Though they would not have a VESA compatibility and requires a big desk to fit in, it also lots of exciting features to cover this drawback.
This best external monitor for MacBook pro and air has an IPS display technology to deliver accurate colors and fine details on display. The technology ensures excellent viewing angles, offering you high-quality images from anywhere you stream. The gray-scale performance of the display is powerful, and the advanced picture settings are appealing.
Similarly, the On-Screen display menu is user-friendly, allowing you to different adjustments, including PIP, PBP, sharpness, and black uniformity. You can make the screen according to your requirements and convenience. Besides, the built-in speakers produce distortion-free loud and clear voices.
Moreover, this monitor comes with a hub of ports for connectivity, including HDMI 2.0, two display in and out ports, display port input, and an MHL input to charge several phones quickly. There are six USB 3.0 ports and an audio line to pair external speakers/soundbars.
Hence, if you consider upgrading your existing monitor with a great, durable, and latest monitor, this external monitor for Macbook pro should be your priority.
Features
- Sharp and fine details.
- Rich display colors.
- Seven picture presets modes.
- PIP and PBP available.
Pros
- Curved display.
- Rich brightness.
- Amazing viewing angles.
- Built-in speakers.
- Lots of connection options.
- USB C port for quick charging.
Cons
- Expensive
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9. LG 34WN80C-B 34 inch Curved Ultrawide Monitor
Product Overview
- Brand LG
- Screen size 34 Inch
- Resolution QHD UltraWide 1440p
- Display Tech LED
- Color Black
It comes under an ultrawide monitor with an IPS panel, delivering accurate colors on display, helping you create rich content to enhance productivity. If you are wondering about the best external monitor for your MacBook for any reason, it is the best one to consider. LG 34WN80C-B proposes a simple design with ample bottom space and a curved footprint. It seems like you need a big desk to place it.
The stand provides excellent ergonomics, allowing you tilt and height adjustment options, making the monitor display comfortable for long hours. Connectivity comes with two HDMI 2.0 ports, a single USB Type-C port, one DisplayPort 1.2, two USB 3.0 ports, and a single headphone jack for listening to music.
Similarly, the image quality is outstanding because it has a 21:9 aspect ratio, better than 4K displays. 3440 by 1440 pixels on the screen makes the image clear and precise, with sharp details. If you intend to watch movies or shows on your monitor, then the good news is that most streaming platforms support this aspect ratio so that the content will be near reality.
There are several modes for the smooth working, streaming, and gaming experience. The featured mode includes Picture in Picture, gaming, dual first-person shooter, and RTS modes. 75Hz refresh rate is also bringing satisfaction with an average input lag of 10ms.
Besides, if you enable the Dynamic Action Sync mode, your gaming would be fun and efficient. Since the external monitor is an all-rounder, the average response time of 5ms is perfect for gaming. Undoubtedly, it is the best monitor with a hub of inspiring features and robust build quality. I assure you it will bring value to your tech devices and increase your productivity for good.
Features
- Hub of connectivity.
- Peak brightness and rich colors on screen
- Split-screen.
- Gamer modes.
- Adaptive Sync technology.
- Appealing refresh rate.
Pros
- Slim bezel design.
- Ultrawide screen monitor.
- Convincing ergonomics.
- 10ms of input lag.
- User-friendly monitor.
Cons
- Lack of built-in sound system.
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10. Asus Designo MX27UCS 27” Monitor 4K
Product Overview
- Brand Asus
- Screen size 27 Inch
- Resolution 4K UHD 2160p
- Display Tech LED
- Color Gold and Black
Asus Designo’s 27-inch external monitor is here to fulfill all your expectations. It is the best monitor for a content creator whose work revolves around the picture, video editing, and graphic designing. It promotes high resolution with remarkable color accuracy on display.
The design is relatively straightforward, with slim bezels around. The stand is powerful and allows several adjustments for your convenience. The design may restrict the chance of wall mounting, but it will look cute on the desk. Since the front and sides are plain, all the mess locates at the back.
You can easily reach the connectivity ports that come your way. It comes with DisplayPort, HDMI, and one extra Display port to connect phone, tab, or laptop while a mirror their display on your monitor display. Also, it integrates an ASUS eye care technology that saves your eyes from the screen. It will prove to be highly useful while sitting in front of the screen for long hours.
Another most critical thing in a monitor is its image quality. ASUS Designo 27 inch external monitor goes out of the box and produces exceptionally accurate colors covering about 100% of color gamut area and striking contrast or brightness.
If you want to do graphic designing or even video editing, this external monitor for MacBook pro and the air is your best option. Surprisingly, the built-in speakers produce a crispy, clear, and loud noise, providing an exciting listening experience. The speakers may not deliver deep bass, but they are balanced to deliver good audio quality on a budget.
Features
- 4K resolution.
- Color accuracy.
- Lots of inputs.
- ASUS eye care technology.
- 60Hz refresh rate.
Pros
- Slim design.
- Excellent contrast.
- Built-in speakers.
- Terrific viewing angles.
Cons
- Limited ergonomics.
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11. Dell Ultra HD 4K Monitor P2415Q 24-Inch Screen LED
Product Overview
- Brand Dell
- Screen size 24 inch
- Resolution 4K UHD 2160p
- Display Tech LCD
- Color Black
Dell always goes beyond expectations to produce exceptional products, keeping all our needs in mind. This 24-inch external monitor could be a valuable alternative to MacBook pro and Air screen as it promises 4K clarity on the screen with four times better resolution than Full HD. The colors cover a wide coverage area, approximately 99% of the color gamut to produce an outstanding image.
This external monitor features 8million pixels on the screen to ensure the image is accurate, details are fine, and the performance is appealing to the users. It allows content creators to edit pictures and videos and make the most out of them. Besides, the monitor’s design is simple yet elegant. It is a perfect piece to put on an office desk, giving sophisticated vibes.
Moreover, the monitor offers full adjustability, thanks to its ergonomic supportive stand. You can tilt, pivot, swivel the stand, and the height adjusting feature will help you set the monitor at the correct position for comfortable use. This way, you can also customize your viewing angles as per your requirements.
The 4K external monitor comes your way with excellent connectivity. Since the technology is getting advanced, you can connect other devices and watch their content on your monitor screen.
It offers a DisplayPort 1.2 that allows other monitors or laptops to connect to enhance productivity. It also comes with HDMI and MHL port for charging and phone/tabs connections, respectively.
Features
- 99% of sRGB color coverage.
- TCO certified.
- 6ms of response time.
- Reliable performance.
- High pixel density.
Pros
- Ergonomic supportive.
- USB 3.0.
- Plug and play.
- VESA compatible.
Cons
- No built-in speakers.
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12. Dell UltraSharp U2414H 23.8” Inch Screen LED Monitor
Product Overview
- Brand Dell
- Screen size 24 Inch
- Resolution FHD 1080p
- Display Tech LED
- Color Black
You can trust Dell with the closed eyes for all your technology-related items. It is a famous brand for producing the best monitors that deliver amazing user experience and promise reliable products at an affordable price range.
Dell ultrasharp series is a great product line with thin borders, giving ample space to the screen. Since it has a 24-inch screen size, it still delivers flawless image quality on the screen. Full HD resolution tries to maximize the display brightness to make the image crispy. The 96% of sRGB coverage ensures color accuracy to produce a perfect picture with sharp details.
The best external monitor comes with an adjustable stand that allows you to make changes with height, tilting, and make the screen comfortable for yourself. 178-degree viewing angles deliver the same performance from a distance that you get from the front.
Similarly, the connectivity is limited but advanced, according to the needs of modern times. It gives you DisplayPort 1.2, MHL connectivity, and USB 3.0 input. USB gives you the benefit of fast charging your phones, MHLS helps you an easy connectivity with all the compatible devices, and lets you watch the device content on screen.
Features
- 77 million colors.
- MHL connectivity.
- Premium monitor with Eco-conscious design.
- Budget-friendly monitor.
Pros
- Thin border display.
- TCO Certified.
- It provides easy adjustability with ergonomics.
- VESA compatible.
- 8ms response time.
Cons
- No built-in speakers.
- Not suitable for gaming.
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How to Choose Best External Monitor for MacBook Pro and Air – Buying Guide
All the reviews written above would give you a rough idea about what to look for when getting an external monitor for MacBook Pro and Air. Still, here are some factors that you should never avoid at any cost.
User-friendly
Make sure your external monitor won’t give you a hard time setting up. It should be user-friendly with easy access to settings, ports, ergonomics, etc., and should be better than the MacBook itself.
Image Quality
The image quality should be accurate with high resolution and rich colors. The external monitor should support maximum color gamut coverage area for producing millions of colors on display. It will help the content creators to make unique content by delivering sharp and fine details.
Connectivity
Always look for an external monitor with lots of connectivity ports. It will give you the benefit of pairing maximum devices simultaneously and enhance your productivity. HDMI, USB, MHL, DisplayPort, USB Type-C are some of the ports that should never compromise. Also, try to find their latest versions for easy connectivity with modern devices.
Performance
I assume you are getting an external monitor for your work needs, so be careful about performance. Look for a fast response time and excellent refresh rate so you would not face delays while working.
The panel technology also plays a part in delivering reliable performance. VA and IPS panels can be a good choice, as IPS panel offers excellent viewing angles with peak brightness level. Besides, many external monitors also integrate gaming features like low input lag, Free Sync, VRR, and others for a smooth gaming experience. If you are a game freak, look for those features for a cheat day at work.
Monitor Design
You can not expect monitors to be stylish because they should be sophisticated to put on the office desk. However, you can expect the best ergonomics stand to adjust the monitor at the most comfortable position.
Moreover, you can choose different screen sizes according to your place and requirements. The monitor comes in various sizes, different display types, which varies with prices.
FAQs
Can I connect any monitor work with a MacBook?
Yes, you can easily connect any monitor with your MacBook Pro and Air via a VGA display port or a USB Type-C port.
What are Monitors compatible with MacBook Pro and Air?
All of the monitors written above are compatible to work with MacBook Pro and Air. However, you can consider the Dell U series in different sizes for better performance.
Are Thunderbolt and USB Type-C are the same?
Somehow both ports seem similar, and their function is also the same. So, you can use either port to connect your MacBook Pro and Air to any external monitor.
Conclusion
Getting an external monitor for MacBook Pro and Air has never been easy. All these reviews will benefit you by choosing the right monitor according to your budget and needs. An external monitor is a valuable addition and the best alternative to get your work done effectively and efficiently.
