In today’s fast-paced world, where versatility and convenience are crucial, the compatibility between devices has become increasingly essential. Apple’s MacBook Pro and Mini users understand the value of having monitors that can seamlessly connect to their devices, enhancing their productivity and visual experience.
When Apple exited the display monitor market, pointing users towards third-party options, this left a variety of Mac users frustrated with what they felt were less-than-Mac quality options. If you’re in that boat, here’s a look at best quality monitors that are compatible with the MacBook Pro through USB Type-C or a variety of other connections.
This article dives into the top USB-C monitors that are perfect companions for your Apple MacBook Pro and Mini. With these monitors, you can unlock a new level of efficiency, clarity, and versatility for your work and entertainment needs.
Best USB-C Monitors for Apple Mac: 32-inch and larger
1. LG 32UL950-W
The LG UltraFine 32-Inch Display is truly impressive, blending features and performance to stand out as a best monitor. With its large screen, stunning visuals, and versatile connectivity, this monitor aims to elevate your computing experience across different tasks.
One of the standout features of the LG UltraFine 32-Inch Display is its 4K UHD resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. This ensures that every image and detail is rendered with exceptional clarity and precision, whether you’re indulging in creative work, watching movies, or simply browsing the web. The Nano IPS panel with DCI-P3 98% color accuracy further contributes to the visual brilliance, ensuring vibrant and true-to-life colors that are a delight to behold.
The inclusion of a 60Hz refresh rate adds smoothness to motion, allowing for seamless transitions and a more immersive experience. This is especially beneficial for tasks that involve video playback and gaming. Additionally, the monitor’s impressive peak brightness of 600 nits (450 nits standard) and VESA DisplayHDR™ 600 certification contribute to a dynamic and captivating viewing experience, with excellent contrast and highlights.
Connectivity options on the LG UltraFine 32-Inch Display are plentiful and versatile. The dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, including one for power delivery (PD 60W) and one for data transfer, offer fast and convenient connections for various devices. The display’s compatibility with 4K Daisy Chain using Thunderbolt™ 3 expands the possibilities for multi-monitor setups, catering to productivity enthusiasts and creative professionals alike.
The monitor also features 2 USB-A ports, DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and a 3.5mm headphone output, ensuring seamless integration with a wide range of devices. Whether you need to connect your laptop, gaming console, or other peripherals, the LG UltraFine 32-Inch Display has you covered.
In terms of design, the monitor boasts slim bezels that maximize the screen space and provide a sleek aesthetic. The ability to use the display in portrait orientation adds an extra layer of versatility, catering to different tasks and workflows.
2. BenQ PD3220U
The 32-inch BenQ PD3220U presents itself as a compelling alternative to the LG offerings mentioned earlier, catering to those seeking a robust combination of features for professional use.
With a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160, the monitor ensures crisp visuals within a 16:9 aspect ratio, complemented by a 60Hz refresh rate. The display’s brightness measures at 250 nits in typical conditions, with HDR peak brightness reaching 300 nits, contributing to dynamic and well-defined images.
Impressively, the monitor covers 95% of the DCI-P3 color space, ensuring accurate and vibrant color reproduction for creative tasks. The inclusion of HDR10 further elevates the visual experience, enhancing contrast and luminance for more lifelike content.
The BenQ PD3220U features comprehensive connectivity options, highlighted by two Thunderbolt 3 ports that not only provide data transfer capabilities but also deliver 85W and 15W power deliveries, catering to the power needs of various devices, including MacBooks. The addition of two HDMI 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort 1.4 further enhance compatibility and expand connectivity possibilities.
The inclusion of multiple USB 3.1 ports, a USB-C port, and a USB-B port ensures versatile connectivity for peripherals and accessories. The monitor’s slim bezels contribute to an immersive viewing experience, while its solid metal stand adds stability and durability. BenQ PD3220U offers a competitive option for professionals seeking a feature-rich display. I
3. LG 34BK95U-W
The LG 34WK95U-W is an impressive 34-inch widescreen monitor that strikes a balance between performance and creativity. With its Thunderbolt 3/USB-C connectivity and 5120 x 2160 resolution, it offers a significant upgrade in screen real estate, making it a compelling choice for creative professionals.
The Nano IPS panel’s color accuracy, coupled with DCI-P3 98% coverage, ensures vivid and true-to-life visuals for tasks that demand precise color representation. The monitor’s Thunderbolt 3 interface not only provides high-speed data transfers but also delivers 85W of power, serving as a versatile charging hub.
With a 21:9 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, and VESA HDR 600 support, the LG 34WK95U-W delivers a captivating viewing experience with rich contrasts and vibrant details. Its diverse connectivity options, including 2 HDMI ports, 1 DisplayPort, and 2 USB 3.0 ports, along with built-in speakers and a headphone input, cater to both audiovisual enthusiasts and professionals. Priced at $1,649 (often available for less), this monitor offers exceptional value for those seeking an immersive and feature-rich display.
The LG 34WK95U-W combines visual prowess and connectivity versatility, making it a standout choice for creative professionals and multimedia enthusiasts. Its high-resolution display, accurate color reproduction, and Thunderbolt 3 capabilities contribute to a seamless and immersive visual experience.
While not a true 5K display, its expansive screen space, coupled with its robust feature set, makes it an investment well worth considering for those who require a larger canvas for their creative projects or enhanced multimedia consumption.
4. Dell UltraSharp U3224KB 31.5 Monitor
The Dell UltraSharp U3224KB 31.5″ Webcam 6K LED Monitor presents a compelling option for users seeking a high-performance display that merges advanced features with visual brilliance.
One of the standout features of this monitor is its USB Type-C connectivity, enabling rapid data transmission at an elevated rate. This proves particularly convenient for users seeking efficient connectivity. With a viewable screen size of 31.5 inches, the monitor provides ample space for enjoying movies, games, and other visual content with remarkable clarity. The 5 ms GTG (Fast) response time contributes to seamless visuals, making it an ideal choice for action-packed films and gaming sessions.
The 450 Nit brightness of the monitor ensures excellent visibility, even in well-lit environments, catering to versatile usage scenarios. Additionally, the monitor boasts a 6K screen mode, offering an extraordinary display quality that captures attention. The LED backlight technology not only delivers captivating visuals but also maximizes energy efficiency.
The 6144 x 3456 maximum resolution enriches content with vibrant and crystal-clear detail, adding an extra layer of productivity to your workflow. A standard refresh rate of 60 Hz reduces motion blur, ensuring smooth performance across various activities. The widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio lends itself well to various tasks, from multimedia consumption to professional tasks.
Dell UltraSharp U3224KB 31.5″ Webcam 6K LED Monitor offers a fusion of superior features that elevate the viewing experience. With its impressive display quality, connectivity options, and thoughtful design elements, this monitor proves to be a worthy investment for those seeking both visual excellence and enhanced productivity.
5. LG UltraFine OLED Pro
The LG UltraFine OLED Pro display offers a premium visual experience with its OLED technology, featuring deep blacks, vibrant colors, and high-quality imagery. Available in 27 and 31.5-inch options, it boasts a 4K resolution, Dolby HDR 400 True Black, rapid 1 ms response time, and extensive color coverage with 99% DCI P3 and Adobe RGB.
The display features USB-C connectivity with 90W pass-thru power, making it ideal for professional users who prioritize flawless color accuracy and stunning visuals for their creative projects.
6. Dell UltraSharp 32 4K USB-C Hub Monitor
The Dell UltraSharp 32 4K USB-C Hub Monitor stands out with its remarkable features, catering to professionals and enthusiasts alike. Notable highlights include its impressive 98% DCI-P3 color coverage, making it an excellent choice for tasks demanding accurate color reproduction. Moreover, the monitor offers a substantial 90W charging capability through USB-C, ensuring efficient power delivery to MacBooks and other compatible devices.
The integrated hub further enhances its versatility, providing a seamless experience with USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet, DP 1.4, and HDMI ports.
Delving into its specifications, the monitor boasts a spacious 31.5-inch display employing IPS Black technology, promising vivid and true-to-life visuals. With a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 and a 60Hz refresh rate, the display delivers impressive clarity and smoothness for various applications.
The 16:9 aspect ratio ensures a comfortable viewing experience across a range of content. The monitor’s anti-glare finish with a 3H hard coating enhances visual comfort even in well-lit environments, while its 400 nit brightness enhances visibility.
The USB 3.2 gen 2 hub contributes to seamless connectivity, offering various ports for different needs. Notably, the USB-C upstream/DisplayPort 1.4 Alt Mode supports power delivery up to 90W, ensuring efficient charging while delivering content. Additionally, the monitor features USB-C and USB downstream ports, providing flexibility for peripherals.
The inclusion of LAN (RJ-45 Ethernet) and audio line-out further enhances its usability. With a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $1,150, the Dell UltraSharp 32 4K USB-C Hub Monitor offers a valuable investment for those seeking a blend of high-quality visuals, efficient connectivity, and functional design.
7. Samsung ViewFinity S9
The Samsung ViewFinity S9 presents a compelling alternative to Apple’s Studio Display, offering a host of impressive features that cater to creative professionals and enthusiasts alike. Boasting a sleek metal design, the monitor houses a 27-inch IPS 5K panel with a remarkable resolution of 5120 x 2880, ensuring stunning clarity and detail.
With 99% DCI-P3 coverage and 600 nits of brightness, the display delivers vivid and accurate colors that are essential for tasks demanding precise color reproduction. The incorporation of Thunderbolt 4 connectivity enhances data transfer speeds and expands connectivity options, while the USB-C port facilitates seamless device connections.
The ViewFinity S9’s feature set extends beyond visuals, as it integrates a built-in color calibration engine that maintains exceptional color accuracy with an average Delta E ≦ 21. This ensures that the display remains consistent and true to its color profile, a vital aspect for professionals engaged in color-sensitive work.
The monitor also offers practical versatility with a 90W power delivery capacity through Thunderbolt 4, effectively serving as a charging hub for compatible devices. Its functionality expands further with a built-in SlimFit 4K webcam, integrated speakers featuring Adaptive Sound+, and even Samsung Smart Hub for TV use. A
djustable in height, tilt, and pivot, and VESA mountable, the ViewFinity S9 offers ergonomic flexibility for comfortable viewing. With a price tag of $1,599, this monitor is positioned as a premium yet competitive option in the high-end display market.
Best USB-C 27 Inch Monitors for Apple MacBook Pro and Mini
1. LG 27UK850-W
The LG 27UK850-W monitor has recently gained significant popularity and recognition as one of the top preferences in the list. The 27UK850-W offers a 27-inch IPS display, HDR10 compatibility, USB Type-C, FreeSync, and 99% sRGB coverage.
This monitor proves to be best option for the MacBook Pro and power delivery needs. Its performance has been consistently satisfactory. The monitor has the minimal backlight bleeding, and the color representation is good. HDR10 significantly enhances content that supports it by amplifying the contrast between light and dark visuals, thereby maximizing the potential of the pixels.
This monitor is also well-suited for gaming activities. It can be connected to a gaming console or used for gaming sessions with a MacBook. As a user of a PC with an AMD video card, the inclusion of FreeSync proves to be a beneficial feature.
Considering its combination of a 27-inch IPS display, HDR10 capability, functional USB-C with adequate power delivery for the MacBook Pro, and 4k resolution, the price range of around $650 seems very justifiable. Moreover, the LG 27UK850-W stands as a worthy upgrade from the prior-generation LG 27UD88, which lacked HDR10 support. If a choice between the two arises, opting for the newer version is recommended.
2. Lepow 15.6″ Portable Monitor
Looking for something that’s portable, works with your MacBook Pro, and allows you to easily add a second monitor wherever you’re working?
Lepow’s 15.6″ IPS 1080p monitor is a great choice. It’s slim at just .3 inches, lightweight at 1.76 pounds, and even has dual built-in speakers. You can use your USB-C battery pack to power it while you’re on an airplane or whenever you might not have access to power.
Pros:
- Attractive to travellers.3.0 Inches thick and 1.76 lbs.
- IPS Panel with Clear and Bright Built-In Speakers
- Compatible with Phones (HDMI to Lightning for iPhone)
- Supports Landscape or Portrait Mode
- USB Type-C Port and Mini HDMI Port
Cons:
- Audio output is not very loud.
If you travel a lot or simply like to move around a lot while you’re working than this would be good choice for you. They are quite useful and reasonably priced.
3. Dell Ultrathin Monitor S2718D Ultrathin Type-C
The Dell UltraThin S2718D monitor offers a perfect balance of style and functionality. Its slim design and virtually borderless display create a modern and immersive viewing experience.
With a 27-inch IPS panel and a resolution of 2560 x 1440, the visuals are crisp and vibrant, making it suitable for both work and entertainment. The inclusion of a USB-C port enhances connectivity, providing seamless video and power delivery for MacBook Pro users. While lacking in extensive adjustability options, the monitor’s lightweight build and sleek profile make it easy to position. The Dell UltraThin S2718D is a solid choice for those seeking a blend of aesthetics and performance in their monitor.
Priced at approximately $400, the Dell UltraThin S2718D stands out as a favored USB Type-C monitor in the market.
The display itself offers an impressive visual experience with a high brightness level of 400 nits, albeit slightly lower than that of an iMac. A notable standout feature is its nearly bezel-less design, coupled with a thickness of 6.9mm. With its silver and black design and ultra-thin screen, it is definitely one of the best-looking monitors we have ever seen.
While there are no VESA mounting holes on the back, it’s worth noting that if wall mounting is in your plans, you might need to explore other options. The monitor provides easy tilting and swiveling capabilities; however, it lacks additional height adjustment. Furthermore, it’s important to acknowledge that this monitor doesn’t offer 4k resolution, which might be a dealbreaker for some users.
Pros:
- Sleek Bezel Design
- Vibrant and Accurate Colors
- Good Grayscale
- Wide Viewing Angles
Cons:
- Screen-Tearing Issues in Games
- Lacks Speakers
4. Acer H277HU Monitor
The Acer H277HU is a high-quality, incredibly affordable IPS monitor featuring a 1440p resolution and color-accurate IPS monitor. This 27′′ IPS display not only has the design you want, but it also has a large, bright, sharp screen.
The H277HU has additional connectors outside only USB type-C, including HDMI, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, and DisplayPort. So switching to other devices, like your Apple TV, is simple.
You may use the monitor and charge your laptop simultaneously using the USB Type-C port. With the most recent version of MacOS Sierra, there were problems with the MacBook Pro 2016 touch bar charging and connecting.
Pros:
- Sleek and Slim
- Lightweight Build
- Rich Color Saturation, Matte Screen Finish, and Borderless Frame
Cons:
- While colors and black-and-white visuals are vibrant, they might appear slightly different compared to Apple displays.
- Compatibility Issues Identified with 2017 MacBook Pro
5. Viewsonic VP2771 27″ IPS WQHD Monitor
The Viewsonic VP2771 27′′ IPS and some of the other monitors on this page should be at the top of your list if you’re seeking for a color-accurate monitor for your MacBook Pro with USB Type-C. With HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, DisplayPort Out, USB 3.1 Type-C, and USB 3.1 Type A or B, connectivity is robust.
The display itself arrives with presets such as S4GB, Rec.709, SMPTE-C, DICOM-SIM, and even iPhone settings.
The VP2771 has a confirmed Delta E and is well-calibrated for accuracy right out of the box.
Overall, if you’re looking for a 1440p alternative that can cover the Rec.709/sRGB space, this monitor is fantastic. Despite being marketed as a professional monitor, it does not support the Adobe RGB Gamut; but, you are not paying for it either here. The factory calibration is the important factor here. Yes, you could have better results if you utilise the Viewsonic calibration kit, however you might not require it.
*Remember that a USB-C cable that charges is required. So make sure you search for one that supports Thunderbolt!
Advantages
- Accurate Color Reproduction
- Out-of-the-box Calibration with Delta E ≤
- Bright and Vibrant Image
Drawbacks
- The menu interface might lack intuitiveness.
6. LG Electronics 4k UHD 27UD88-W 27″ Type-C USB Monitor
LG’s UltraFine 5k and 4k Displays are probably familiar to you from the Apple website. They do have a second Type-C alternative in the LG 4k UHD 27UD88-W. This is a good gaming choice because it features AMD’s FreeSync technology.
The 27UD88’s design, with its white chassis and curved stand, is a major advantage. The display has USB Type-C, two USB 2.0 connections, a DisplayPort, and two HDMI ports for connectivity.
The monitor is a bit pricy, but it does provide an excellent balance of brightness and contrast, but not as well as some other displays I’ve seen. The 99% sRGB coverage and 8-bit colour with a frame-rate control of up to 1.07 billion may be enough for some.
Conclusion
Investing in a USB-C monitor for your Apple MacBook Pro or Mini is a decision that can significantly enhance your computing experience. With streamlined connectivity, stunning visuals, and ergonomic design, these monitors offer a perfect blend of performance and convenience. Whether you’re a creative professional or a business user, the right USB-C monitor can elevate your productivity and enjoyment to new heights.
