Are you on the hunt for the perfect display to complement your Mac setup? The world of USB-C and Thunderbolt displays has expanded significantly in recent years, offering a wide range of options to meet your needs. While Apple’s Pro Display XDR is undoubtedly impressive, its hefty price tag of $5,000+ can be a bit much for most Mac users. Thankfully, there are numerous alternatives available from brands like LG, Samsung, BenQ, and more. Let’s explore the best USB-C and Thunderbolt displays on the market, with many falling within the $400-$1,600 price range.
These displays are designed to work seamlessly with your MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and even PCs, offering a single-cable setup. Plus, they can also be used with devices like the iPad Pro and the 2020 iPad Air and newer, although there might be some limitations.
High-End USB-C/Thunderbolt Displays for Mac
- LG 34BK95U-W
- 34-inch widescreen Thunderbolt 3/USB-C display
- 5120 x 2160 resolution
- Nano IPS Panel
- Thunderbolt 3 Interface
- Power output: 85W
- 21:9 Aspect Ratio
- Brightness: 450 (Typ), 360 (min) cd/m2
- Price: $1,649 (often available for less)
- Samsung ViewFinity S9
- 27-inch 5K panel
- Slim metal design with aluminum stand
- 99% DCI-P3
- Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
- Price: $1,599
- BenQ PD3220U
- 32-inch display
- 4K resolution
- 95% DCI-P3 color
- 85W power delivery for MacBooks
- Variety of professional modes
- Price: $1,199 (often available for less)
- LG UltraFine OLED Pro
- Available in 27 and 31.5-inch OLED screen options
- 4K resolution
- USB-C with 90W pass-thru power
- Dolby HDR 400 True Black
- Price: $1,999-$3,499
- Apple Studio Display
- 27-inch panel
- 5K 5120 x 2880 resolution
- 218 PPI
- 60Hz refresh rate
- 600 nits brightness
- P3 wide color support
- Price: $1,599-$2,299 (depending on stand and screen finish)
Apple-Endorsed Displays for Mac
- LG UltraFine 24 & 27-inch Displays
- 27-inch UltraFine display
- 5K resolution
- 24-inch 4K UltraFine display
- 27-inch: $1,300
- 24-inch: Around $700
Budget-Friendly USB-C Displays for Mac
- BenQ 27- or 32-inch Ergo Arm 4K
- 27- or 32-inch panel at 4K resolution
- USB-C single cable connectivity with 90W power delivery (65W for PD2705UA)
- Price: $599, $649, $749
- Samsung 32-inch Smart Monitor M8
- 4K 3840 x 2160 resolution
- 32-inch panel
- USB-C with up to 65W charging
- Price: MSRP $699-$729 (often available for less)
- LG 32-inch Smart Monitor
- USB-C with up to 65W charging
- 4K 3840 x 2160 resolution
- 31.5-inch panel
- Price: MSRP $499.99
- LG 32-inch 32UP550-W
- 32-inch screen
- 4K resolution
- USB-C with 96W power delivery
- Price: MSRP $449 or less
Considering Your Options
While these displays offer a wide range of choices to suit your Mac setup, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. If 4K resolution is a must, but you can forgo USB-C/Thunderbolt connectivity, Philips and AOC offer 27-inch 4K displays at a lower cost.
Another flexible option is leveraging macOS Sidecar, which allows you to use your iPad as a secondary display. By exploring these options, you can find the ideal display that complements your workflow and enhances your Mac experience.
