Monitors help MacBook Pro users see more on their screens. A good monitor can make work easier and more comfortable. It can show bigger pictures and let you open more windows at once.
MacBook Pro laptops already have nice screens. But an external monitor gives you extra space. This is helpful for tasks like video editing, coding, or just having many tabs open. Most MacBook Pro models can connect to one or more extra monitors.
When picking a monitor for your MacBook Pro, look at the connection type it uses. Newer MacBooks need USB-C or Thunderbolt cables. Screen size, resolution, and color accuracy also matter depending on your work. Price ranges from $150 for basic models to over $1,000 for high-end displays. We tested fifteen monitors with MacBook Pros to find the best options for different needs and budgets.
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Best Monitors for MacBook Pro
We picked the top monitors for your MacBook Pro to help you work better. A good monitor can make your Mac setup more useful with extra screen space. These options match well with MacBook Pro and offer sharp images plus helpful features.
Amazon Basics 27-Inch Monitor
This 27-inch Full HD monitor offers excellent value for MacBook Pro users who need a larger screen with multiple connection options.
Pros
- Clear 1080p resolution with vibrant IPS display
- Multiple connection ports including HDMI and DisplayPort
- Adjustable tilt stand for better viewing angles
Cons
- Built-in speakers are basic for meetings only
- No height adjustment feature
- Stand takes up desk space
We recently tested this Amazon Basics monitor with our MacBook Pro. The setup was quick using the included HDMI cable. The 27-inch screen gives plenty of space for spreadsheets and creative work.
The IPS panel shows colors well from all angles. This matters when sharing your screen with others. The 75Hz refresh rate makes scrolling smoother than standard 60Hz monitors. Text looks sharp and videos play clearly.
The monitor has many ports to connect your MacBook Pro. We used the HDMI connection, but you could also use DisplayPort. The built-in speakers work for video calls but aren’t great for music.
For the price, this monitor delivers solid performance. The tilt adjustment helps reduce neck strain. We like that it’s VESA compatible if you want to mount it on a wall or monitor arm. Energy Star certification means it won’t waste electricity when connected to your MacBook Pro.
Philips 24″ Full HD Monitor
We highly recommend this Philips monitor for MacBook Pro users seeking crisp visuals and excellent value.
Pros
- Crystal clear Full HD display with vibrant colors
- Nearly frameless design perfect for multi-monitor setups
- Eye care features reduce strain during long work sessions
Cons
- Limited to 100Hz refresh rate
- Only includes HDMI and VGA ports
- Stand lacks height adjustment options
After connecting this Philips 24-inch monitor to our MacBook Pro, we were impressed by the image quality. The Full HD resolution makes text sharp and easy to read. Colors look rich and true thanks to the VA panel technology.
The almost borderless design gives a clean, modern look on any desk. We found the thin bezel makes it ideal for placing two monitors side by side. This setup greatly improved our workflow when editing documents and browsing websites.
Eye strain is a real concern for long workdays. The LowBlue Mode and flicker-free technology really work. Our eyes felt less tired after a full day of spreadsheets and video calls. The wide viewing angles let us share our screen with coworkers without color shifts.
Setup was simple with our MacBook Pro. Just plug in the HDMI cable and the monitor is ready to use. The 100Hz refresh rate provides smooth motion when watching videos or doing light gaming. For most office tasks and media consumption, this monitor delivers excellent performance at a reasonable price point.
Sceptre 24-inch Professional LED Monitor
The Sceptre 24-inch monitor offers excellent value for MacBook Pro users who need a budget-friendly display with good color accuracy and multiple connection options.
Pros
- Impressive 99% sRGB color coverage
- Multiple input ports (2 HDMI, 1 VGA)
- Blue Light Shift feature for eye comfort
Cons
- Built-in speakers lack bass
- No USB-C port for direct MacBook connection
- Stand lacks height adjustment
We tested this Sceptre monitor with our MacBook Pro and found it to be a solid performer for everyday tasks. The setup was simple – we just needed an HDMI adapter for our MacBook. The 1080p resolution looks sharp on the 24-inch screen, making text easy to read during long work sessions.
The color accuracy is a standout feature. With 99% sRGB coverage, our photos and videos displayed with rich, true-to-life colors. This makes it a good pick for light photo editing or watching movies. The 75Hz refresh rate also made scrolling through websites and documents noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz monitors.
Connecting to our MacBook Pro was easy but required an adapter since this monitor doesn’t have USB-C ports. We appreciate the dual HDMI ports that let us keep both our MacBook and another device connected at the same time. The built-in speakers work fine for basic needs, but we’d suggest external speakers or headphones for better sound quality.
MNN Portable Monitor
This portable monitor offers excellent value for MacBook Pro users who need a second screen with simple setup and good image quality.
Pros
- Plug and play with just one USB-C cable
- Clear, bright 1080p display with wide viewing angles
- Lightweight and travel-friendly with smart cover stand
Cons
- Must use included USB-C cable only
- Cover stand has limited positioning options
- Speakers are basic quality
We tested this 15.6-inch MNN portable monitor with a MacBook Pro and were impressed by how easy it was to set up. No drivers needed – we just plugged in the included USB-C cable and it worked right away. The connection handles both power and display signal, which means fewer cables to carry.
The screen quality is quite good for the price. Colors look accurate on the 1080p display. Text is sharp and easy to read when working on documents. The matte finish helps cut down glare when using it in bright rooms. We found the 300 nits brightness works well in most indoor settings.
At just over 2 pounds, this monitor is easy to pack in a laptop bag. The smart cover protects the screen and folds into a stand that works in both landscape and portrait modes. When working from home or at a coffee shop, having this second screen made us much more productive with our MacBook Pro. Multiple display modes let us either mirror our screen or extend it for more workspace.
HDR mode adds extra depth to videos and photos. The built-in speakers are basic but work fine for casual use. For MacBook Pro users who travel often or have limited desk space, this monitor offers great functionality without breaking the bank.
LG UltraFine 4K Monitor
This 27-inch 4K monitor offers excellent color accuracy and USB-C connectivity, making it a perfect match for MacBook Pro users looking for a premium display solution.
Pros
- Stunning 4K resolution with 99% sRGB color coverage
- Easy one-cable connection via USB-C for MacBooks
- VESA DisplayHDR 400 support enhances content
Cons
- Price is higher than non-4K alternatives
- Stand takes up desk space
- On-screen control menu can be confusing
We recently tested the LG UltraFine 27-inch 4K monitor with our MacBook Pro, and the experience was excellent. The setup couldn’t be simpler – one USB-C cable handles video, data, and charging your laptop. This clean desk setup is a huge plus for MacBook users.
The display quality really stands out. Text looks crisp and images pop with vibrant colors. We noticed how well it displays photos and videos – colors stay true even when viewed from the sides. With 99% sRGB coverage, this monitor handles design work with impressive accuracy. The 4K resolution makes everything look sharp, and there’s plenty of screen space for multiple windows.
The built-in height and tilt adjustments help find a comfortable viewing position. We like the slim bezels that make the display feel more immersive. Though the price is higher than 1080p monitors, the quality difference is worth it for daily MacBook Pro users. The HDR support adds extra depth to compatible content, making movies and photos look more lifelike.
BenQ 32″ 4K Monitor for MacBook
This BenQ monitor is the ideal companion for any MacBook owner who wants more screen space without losing Apple’s color quality.
Pros
- Perfect color match with MacBook displays
- Single USB-C connection handles video and charging
- Adjustable stand for comfortable viewing angles
Cons
- Quite heavy at almost 34 pounds
- Takes up significant desk space
- Premium price compared to non-Mac-specific monitors
We tested the BenQ MA320U with our MacBook Pro last week. The connection was simple – just one USB-C cable and we were up and running. The monitor not only displayed our screen but also charged our MacBook with 90W power delivery.
Colors look amazing on this 32-inch 4K display. BenQ has done a great job matching the P3 color gamut that Apple uses. Photos and videos show the same rich colors as on our MacBook screen. Text looks crisp and clear too.
The monitor’s stand lets us adjust the height, tilt, and even rotate the screen. We found this helpful when sharing our work with team members. The dual HDMI and USB-C ports came in handy when we needed to connect multiple devices. We could control brightness with our MacBook keyboard which felt natural and saved us from fumbling with monitor buttons.
Setting up the monitor does take some muscle due to its weight. Make sure you have enough desk space before buying. While using it for a week, we noticed the matte screen cuts down on glare from office lights – a nice bonus for long work sessions.
Samsung 22″ T350 Monitor
This Samsung monitor offers excellent value for MacBook Pro users with its borderless design, vibrant display, and smooth refresh rate.
Pros
- Nearly frameless design creates a clean, modern look
- IPS panel shows true colors from all viewing angles
- 75Hz refresh rate prevents stuttering and lag
Cons
- 22-inch size may feel small for some professional tasks
- Limited to 1080p resolution
- No USB-C port for single-cable MacBook connection
We tested this Samsung T350 monitor with our MacBook Pro and were pleased with the setup process. The monitor has a slim profile with an almost invisible bezel on three sides. This design makes it perfect for dual-monitor setups since screens can sit side by side with minimal gap.
Colors pop nicely on the IPS panel. We could see everything clearly even when viewing the screen from the side. This feature helps when we need to show our work to someone sitting next to us. The 75Hz refresh rate makes scrolling through documents and websites noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz displays.
For MacBook Pro users, you’ll need an adapter since this monitor doesn’t have USB-C inputs. It comes with HDMI and VGA ports. The Eye Saver Mode helps reduce blue light during long work sessions. We found this feature useful during late-night projects. The sturdy stand keeps the monitor stable, though it only offers tilt adjustment without height options.
LG 27-inch 4K UltraFine Monitor
This LG 4K monitor offers exceptional value for MacBook Pro users who need crisp visuals and accurate colors without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Crystal clear 4K resolution with vibrant colors
- Adjustable stand for comfortable viewing angles
- Easy-to-use screen splitting software
Cons
- Limited to 60Hz refresh rate
- Stand doesn’t adjust for height
- HDR performance is basic
We recently tested the LG 27US500-W with our MacBook Pro setup. The connection was simple using the included HDMI cable. The 4K display makes text super sharp and photos look amazing. Colors pop on the screen thanks to its HDR10 support and 90% DCI-P3 color coverage.
The white design looks clean on our desk. It matches Apple products nicely. The borderless design gives it a modern look. We noticed the matte screen finish helps reduce glare from office lights.
Setting up split-screen workspaces is a breeze with LG’s OnScreen Control software. We could divide our desktop into different sections with a few clicks. This feature is great when working on multiple projects. The screen tilts easily to find the perfect angle, though we wish it had height adjustment.
For creative work like photo editing, this monitor shines. The contrast ratio delivers deep blacks and the color accuracy is impressive for this price point. While not the fastest for gaming, it handles everyday tasks and professional work beautifully. Mac users will appreciate how seamlessly it works with their systems right out of the box.
Dell 24-inch FHD Monitor
The Dell S2425HS monitor is worth buying for MacBook Pro users who need crisp visuals, good sound quality, and excellent adjustability at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Built-in 5W speakers with impressive sound quality
- Highly adjustable stand (height, tilt, swivel, pivot)
- Eye comfort features with ComfortView Plus technology
Cons
- Only 1080p resolution (not 4K)
- Limited ports compared to premium monitors
- Standard 23.8″ size may feel small for some users
We tested this Dell monitor with our MacBook Pro, and the connection was simple. The FHD display shows colors accurately with its 99% sRGB coverage. Text appears sharp enough for daily work, and the matte screen prevents annoying glare.
The sound quality surprised us. Most monitor speakers sound tinny, but these 5W speakers deliver clear audio with decent bass. We didn’t need separate speakers for video calls or casual music listening. The five preset audio profiles let us switch between settings for different uses.
Comfort matters for long work sessions. The stand adjusts in every direction – up, down, tilted, or even rotated to portrait mode. The ComfortView Plus feature reduced eye strain during our testing. The 100Hz refresh rate made scrolling through documents smoother than standard 60Hz monitors.
Setting up multiple devices works well with the dual HDMI ports. The thin bezels give the monitor a modern look that pairs nicely with a MacBook Pro. For MacBook users needing an affordable external display with good features, this Dell delivers excellent value.
Dell 27-inch Monitor
This Dell monitor offers great value for MacBook Pro users with its good picture quality and user-friendly design at an affordable price.
Pros
- Clear Full HD display with comfortable anti-glare coating
- Slim design saves desk space with good cable management
- 75Hz refresh rate provides smooth visuals for daily tasks
Cons
- 1080p resolution feels a bit low for a 27-inch screen
- Stand has some wobble when adjusting the monitor
- Limited adjustment options (tilt only)
We tested this Dell 27-inch monitor with our MacBook Pro and found it to be a solid choice for daily work. The setup was quick and easy – we just plugged in the HDMI cable and our MacBook recognized it right away. The picture appeared bright and clear with good color accuracy for everyday tasks.
The slim bezels on three sides give it a modern look on our desk. We like how the built-in power supply and cable holder kept things tidy. This is a big plus when connecting to a MacBook Pro since cable clutter can quickly take over your workspace.
When using it for long work sessions, the anti-glare coating and ComfortView technology helped reduce eye strain. The 75Hz refresh rate made scrolling through documents and websites noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz monitors. For MacBook Pro users who need more screen space for productivity apps, this monitor hits a good balance between size, quality, and price.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a monitor for your MacBook Pro, there are key features to think about. We’ll help you make a smart choice.
Screen Resolution
Screen resolution affects how clear your images look. For most MacBook Pro users, we suggest at least 1440p (2560 x 1440). This gives sharp text and images.
Connection Types
Check what ports your MacBook Pro has before buying a monitor.
| Connection Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| USB-C/Thunderbolt | One cable for video, data, and charging | Can be more costly |
| HDMI | Common on many monitors | May need an adapter |
| DisplayPort | Good for high refresh rates | Less common on MacBooks |
Size Matters
Think about your desk space and needs. Most users find 24-27 inch monitors work best. Larger screens are great for creative work but take up more room.
Panel Type
Different panel types offer different benefits:
- IPS: Best color accuracy, good viewing angles
- VA: Better contrast, deeper blacks
- TN: Fastest response times, good for gaming
Extra Features
Some useful extras to look for:
- Built-in USB hub
- Height adjustment
- Pivot/rotation options
- Built-in speakers
- Blue light filters
Budget Considerations
Price ranges vary widely. Set a budget before shopping. Sometimes paying more upfront means better quality that lasts longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right monitor for your MacBook Pro involves several considerations. Here are answers to common questions that can help you make an informed choice.
What factors should be considered when choosing a monitor to accompany a MacBook Pro?
Screen resolution is a key factor when picking a monitor. Higher resolution displays show sharper images and more content.
Color accuracy matters a lot if you work with photos or videos. Look for monitors with good color gamut coverage like sRGB or P3.
Port selection is also important. Make sure the monitor has compatible connections for your MacBook Pro model. USB-C monitors can charge your laptop while displaying content.
Size and ergonomics affect daily comfort. Choose a screen size that fits your workspace and a stand that lets you adjust height and tilt.
How does one determine if a monitor is compatible with a MacBook Pro?
Check the ports on both devices. Newer MacBook Pros use Thunderbolt/USB-C ports while monitors may have HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C inputs.
You may need an adapter if the connections don’t match. Apple and third-party companies sell adapters for different port combinations.
Check the monitor’s specifications for Mac compatibility. Most modern displays work with MacBooks but some offer special features for Mac users.
What are the best features to look for in a 4K monitor for a MacBook Pro?
USB-C connectivity with power delivery is very useful. It lets you connect and charge your MacBook with just one cable.
HDR support enhances content with better contrast and more vibrant colors. Look for VESA DisplayHDR certification.
A wide color gamut helps with creative work. Monitors that cover 95% or more of the DCI-P3 color space work well with MacBooks.
Built-in speakers and webcams can reduce desk clutter. This creates a cleaner workspace with fewer extra devices.
What recommendations are available for budget-friendly monitors that work well with a MacBook Pro?
LG’s UltraFine displays offer good value while working well with MacBooks. They provide solid color accuracy and USB-C connectivity.
Dell’s P series monitors balance cost and quality. Models like the P2720DC offer USB-C and good ergonomics at reasonable prices.
Samsung’s T series includes affordable options with decent color performance. The T55 curved monitors provide an immersive experience without breaking the bank.
ASUS ProArt displays target creative professionals on a budget. They offer good color accuracy at lower price points than premium alternatives.
How can a dual monitor setup be achieved with a MacBook Pro?
Connect displays directly if you have enough ports. MacBook Pro models support different numbers of external monitors depending on their chips.
Use a docking station to expand port options. This lets you connect multiple monitors through a single cable to your MacBook.
Check display settings to arrange monitors. Go to System Preferences > Displays > Arrangement to position screens correctly.
Consider daisy-chaining with compatible monitors. Some displays with DisplayPort 1.2 or Thunderbolt can connect in series.
What are the advantages of using a portable monitor with a MacBook Pro?
Portability makes a huge difference for people who travel. Slim portable monitors fit in laptop bags alongside your MacBook.
Extra screen space boosts productivity anywhere. You can use apps side by side even in coffee shops or hotel rooms.
Most portable monitors use USB-C for both power and video. This means you need just one cable connection to your MacBook.
Setup is usually simple with no extra power cord needed. Many portable displays draw power directly from the MacBook Pro.
