2011 15": Best option for an external display?

[JTToft]

I might be in the market for an external display for my Early 2011 MacBook Pro (specs below), and I wanted to consult you nice people for opinions on the best options.

Because of hardware constraints (I don't believe my machine can do 4K), I am probably looking for 2560 x 1440 on a 27" (or something similar).
Most of the time, I would be using it as my only display, with the MBP in clamshell mode. I don't do any gaming.

IPS (or possibly PLS?) is a must, and low cost is a priority (without getting shoddy quality). Built-in speakers would be nice.

Thanks!

 

[parivera30]

I have an early 2011 15 inch MBP and have it connected to an LG 34UM95 at 60Hz. I know it's not a low cost monitor but just an idea of the resolution you can get.

 

[pingfan59]

I have an early 2011 15 inch MBP and have it connected to an LG 34UM95 at 60Hz. I know it's not a low cost monitor but just an idea of the resolution you can get.

Thanks, I have been looking for an external monitor for my early 2011 mbp 8,2
Based on the Amazon reviews, this is the one to get as it also acts as a thunderbolt dock somewhat.

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OP - the LG 29UM55 might fit your bill as it is $299.99 and mac compatible, but does not look like it has built in speakers.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/lg-29-i...D=1&siteID=jo_pTdthTuc-WbE9G_vPj8W_XiZSsSpeQg

 

[JTToft]

OP - the LG 29UM55 might fit your bill as it is $299.99 and mac compatible, but does not look like it has built in speakers.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/lg-29-i...D=1&siteID=jo_pTdthTuc-WbE9G_vPj8W_XiZSsSpeQg

- Thanks. There is actually a model with speakers available: 29UM65.
The resolution at 2560 x 1080 is rather low, though. Despite being UltraWide, I'd actually lose screen real estate compared to a 27" 2560 x 1440, which is something I'm not too keen on.

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The LG 34UM95 suggested above is really too expensive.

 

[Fishrrman]

Any search for an IPS display should begin by browsing this comprehensive list:
http://www.pchardwarehelp.com/guides/s-ips-lcd-list.php

 

[JTToft]

Any search for an IPS display should begin by browsing this comprehensive list:
http://www.pchardwarehelp.com/guides/s-ips-lcd-list.php

- Great resource. Thanks!

Can anyone tell me what the deal is with 1.07 billion colour screens?
Right now, I'm primarily looking at the BenQ GW2765HT and the Dell UltraSharp U2715H, where the former boasts 1.07 billion colours, while the Dell sits at 16.8 million.
I can't quite work out the significance of the 1.07 billion.