Display for MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2015)

[Wallace]

Hi,

I'm looking for some advice for an external display specifically for my MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2015, Space Grey).

I also just ordered an external USB-C hub with HDMI port. I don't need 4k but would like to have a high PPI (similar to what the Macbook itself has - my Macbook 12" runs on the "More Space" resolution) and ideally 60Hz.

It also shouldn't break the bank. I also know that the Macbook doesn't have so much graphic power so I want to make sure the display I'm purchasing is compatible.

Things I'm not sure about / things I would like:

1) 25" or 27"
2) Curved vs. not-curved
3) 30Hz vs 60Hz
4) LED vs. LCD
5) Nice design
6) Rich colors and high resolution

Looking forward for your recommendations.

Thanks.

 

[JTToft]

You aren't going to get both not-4K and similar PPI to the built-in display. Unless you can find a 12" 1440p monitor - in which case there's no point.
You can either get 4K and similar to Retina PPI or below 4K and far from Retina PPI.

1) Not important, I would say. 25" does have the advantage of being less expensive in many cases as well as having a higher PPI at the same absolute resolution.
2) Not curved is preferable in most cases. Curved only exists on ultrawide 34"-ish monitors anyway, where it's pretty much necessary because of the sheer size so you can see the edges properly.
3) If you opt for 4K, you will be limited to 30 Hz. It's a tradeoff. 60 Hz is by far preferable, of course.
4) There's no contradiction between LED and LCD. LED backlighting is used in LCD screens. It's important that it's LED, but I don't think anything else exists these days. IPS is important as well.

LG's 27UD88-W USB-C monitor is the obvious choice if you decide on 4K:
http://www.lg.com/us/monitors/lg-27UD88-W-4k-uhd-led-monitor

Dell's UltraSharp U2515H and U2715H are the choices for 1440p monitors:
http://www1.la.dell.com/vc/en/corp/...itor/pd.aspx?refid=dell-u2515h-monitor&s=corp

Perhaps Acer H277HU for a slightly cheaper 1440p USB-C option. I'm not a fan of the design, but that's subjective of course:
http://www.acer.com/ac/en/EE/content/model/UM.HH7EE.008

 

[Wallace]

Thanks for the advice. I read about the Dell but I'm not a big fan of the design. How about the Acer H257HU?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VJUIXO...colid=JK6JMS1OPTHT&coliid=IGWE7CPVBG30I&psc=1

 

[JTToft]

Thanks for the advice. I read about the Dell but I'm not a big fan of the design. How about the Acer H257HU?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VJUIXO...colid=JK6JMS1OPTHT&coliid=IGWE7CPVBG30I&psc=1

- I suppose it's fine. Not the most feature rich or versatile monitor.
I think it's a poor purchase to be honest, considering the U2515H is cheaper and better in every way.