We frequently get queries regarding the best external monitors for the MacBook Pro in emails from our readers who need the larger view for productivity. The promise of a single cable display solution is a widespread requirement nowadays since a lot of users including designers, students, and executives who want a larger external monitor use the popular USB-C laptop. We believe 2018 is the year for these high-potential products, but currently, choices are still slim.
If you can wait a few months more, there are quite a number of upcoming USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 monitors waiting to be released into the market. But if now is the time to strike and upgrade your home or office setup, here are the necessary steps and the options you should consider.
Upcoming Professional Monitors for the MacBook Pro that are Worth the Wait
As you can see, options for a designer display for your MacBook are limited unless you consider the non-USB-C models in the guide linked above. But if you are willing to wait, there will be a lot of notable USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 monitor releases this year. If you are interested, click the links below to check out our previews of these amazing devices.
- Lenovo P32U – 4K Professional Monitor with Thunderbolt 3
- HP 4K Z Series Monitors – Enterprise UHD Monitors with USB-C
- Asus PQ22UC – Portable 4K OLED Monitor for USB-C Laptops
- Asus PA32UC – 4K HDR Monitor with USB-C and FALD
- Samsung C34J791 –QHD Ultrawide QLED Monitor with Thunderbolt 3
- LG 38WK95C – 38-Inch HDR Ultrawide Monitor with USB-C
- ViewSonic Thunderbolt 3 Monitors – 4K Wide Gamut Displays for Professionals
Thoughts About The Best Professional Monitors for the MacBook Pro
USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 monitors are increasingly becoming accessible and available in the retail market thanks to the abundance of MacBook Pro and other USB-C laptop users. There are already notable solutions as presented above, but patience will reward you with a comprehensive suite to choose from. You can, however, still work with non-USB-C monitors if you are willing to buy the right accessories.
This article tries to portray the big picture when you are in the market to shop for a monitor to use with your MacBook Pro. There are three ways you can go about this endeavor; you can shop from the limited selection, use adapters to overcome limitations, or play the waiting game and buy when the time is right. Either way, there is a solution that will suit your needs, plus you can count on Monitornerds to present the latest and the greatest monitors once they become available.
Sam says
Hi all,
I’m looking for a monitor for work to mark up building plans and Pubg on Xbox one any ideas I was thinking of 27in and I spend approx 6-10hrs on its day on it so was looking at Asus eye care but open to suggestions
Paolo Reva says
Hey, Sam! What’s your budget? Are you also looking for a USB-C-equipped model?
Dennis says
hello,
i looking for a native 4k (3840 x 2160 Resolution) IPS USB-C 32″ monitor. My line of work is Video, photography, digital design & motion graphics. what would you say is the option to consider?
Paolo Reva says
Hey, Dennis! What’s your max budget? The Acer PE320QK comes to mind, but if you have a bigger budget, the Asus PA32UC is the best in the consumer category at the moment.
Carol Kiekhaefer says
I am looking for a 42-43 inch high resolution for my new MacBook Pro. Can you provide recommendations — either current or coming? Thank you very much.
Paolo Reva says
Hi, Carol! Watch out for the HP Z43 business monitor which was designed for purposes like yours. Cheers!
Nick says
Hi there,
Thanks for all of this info!
Do you have a recommendation for video editing?
Thanks,
Nick
Paolo Reva says
Hi, Nick! If it was us, we’d pick the Asus PA32UC for its HDR capability and expected imaging quality and accuracy. However, we are still trying to get our hands on a review unit, so stay tuned!
Cat says
Hello, I’m a graphic designer looking for a new external monitor to pair with my new MacBook Pro. Every review is different and I want to ensure I’m making the right choice. I was using a 24″ Apple Cinema Display for years but would’t mind going up to 27″. Anything larger feels just feels like it’s in my face but maybe I’d get used to it. .
Thank you!
Cat
Paolo Reva says
Hey, Cat! There are a lot of options on the market. Check out the LG 27UK850 or the Acer PE320QK which should be sufficient for your requirements. Good luck!
Lisa says
Hello,
I’m looking for a new monitor as my Acer has just quit on me! I have a macbook pro from 2015 which doesn’t have the usb-c connection. I’m a graphic designer so am looking for high resolution and great colour. I’m looking at the LG27UD69 or the LG27UD88. (Although from what I can tell the only difference is the 88 has a usb-c connection and therefore a waste of time for me?) Or would you suggest another brand? I was also looking at ASUS Designo MX27UC or ASUS PB27UQ, but I’m not sure what the difference is between these two! Any advice would be much appreciated!
Than you,
Lisa
Paolo Reva says
Hello, Lisa! Getting the LG 27UD88 grants you with some future proofing when the time to upgrade your MacBook comes. However, if that is a lesser concern, we recommend getting the LG 27UD68-P since it’s cheaper but still identical when it comes to performance. As for the two Asus monitors, the main difference between the two is the exterior design and features.
Lisa says
Thanks so much Paolo!
So you would recommend the LG over the ASUS?
Lisa
Paolo Reva says
Hey, Lisa! For graphics design, the LG monitors will most certainly be better at this price range. Let us know how you like it!