Can I Use a USB-C LCD Monitor with a Late 2018/2020 Mac-Mini? Best Alternative Ports?

[jazz1]

I've got a Dell Monitor with the following specs. :

1 x DP 1.4 (HDCP 1.4)
1 x HDMI1.4 (HDCP 1.4)
1 x USB Type-C (Alternate mode with DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.1 upstream port, Power Delivery PD up to 65 W)
1 x DP (Out) with MST (HDCP 1.4 )
2 x USB 3.0 downstream port
2 x USB 3.0 with BC1.2 charging capability at 2A (max)
1 x Analog 2.0 audio line out (3.5mm jack)

Right now I'm driving the Dell Monitor with the USB-C out of a 2015 12" MacBook. The USB-C also provides power. I would like to replace this laptop with a Mac-Mini. Can I use a USB-C cable from the Mac-Mini to the monitor, even if the monitor also has power out to to the attached computer?

Otherwise, what would be the best option of the listed inputs above. Cable recommendations?

Thanks! The 12" MacBook is on its last legs and too expensive to repair.

 

[Cookie18]

I think I just replied to you in the other thread before seeing this but I’ll answer here anyway.

You should use a USB-C-HDMI cable. You may be able to use the USB-C-USB-C but the aforementioned HDMI will 100% work. I use it for two monitors from my Mac Mini.

 

[jazz1]

Thanks! I’m really nervous about the purchase of a Mac-Mini due to the reports of HDMI to HDMI issues on the Mac-mini. So I could go HDMI from the Mac-Mini to USB-C via the cable you mentioned? Or HDMI to HDMI.

Two monitors would be great!!!

 

[Cookie18]

USB-C from the Mini to HDMI on the monitor.

I really wouldn’t worry about the HDMI to HDMI issue. Unless you need to fill up all of the USB-C ports on the Mini 100% of the time it’s a $10 fix to just get a different cable. That’s assuming you even have the issue, it doesn’t seem to be a widespread issue.

 

[Monotremata]

It'll work exactly the same as it does with your MacBook. The Mini doesn't have a battery or charger, and doesn't get power over USB so its not going to draw any of the charging power from the monitor. That power only goes to devices that ask for it. The monitor itself only has HDMI 1.4 so you won't be getting any 4K at 60Hz with that (if that's its resolution), stick to USB-C or DisplayPort.

 

[Fishrrman]

My opinion only, but...

... with a Mini, don't even bother with displays that use USBc as a connection method. [that is, USBc (Mini) to USBc (display)]

This opens up the "range of choices" to many, MANY more displays.

 

[jazz1]

I probably should have stepped up a little in price to 4k, as this current monitor is certainly not a good as my iMac and the two other Dells I have running off it. But I was just looking for a second auxiliary workstation in the house.

It probably sounds corny to some, but I've got an elderly dog that gets anxious when I leave the first floor for the iMac. So the auxiliary workstation idea allows me to stay on the first floor with the old girl.

That said I am a bit perplexed as to why monitors with USB-C seem to cost more as USB-C certainly isn't all that new.