External display recommendations for my new 16” MacBook Pro

[m021478]

I finally got my hands on the new 16 ” MacBook Pro (2021) and I was hoping you guys could help me figure out which external display (or displays) I should buy to use with it.

The $6000 Apple display is pretty much out of the question, and it appears that LG is the go-to for Mac-compatible the external displays. I’m considering either a single super-sized 38” or 42” inch curved display, or two smaller displays (in the range of 27” - 32” inches each).

Any feedback to help me figure out how to proceed would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Adarna]

I'd look for a display with ≥90W USB Power Delivery via USB Type-C like the 37.5" Dell U3821DW

 

[streamtech]

I suspect your choice of monitor needs to be driven by your use case.
I'm into coding, therefore I really appreciate beautiful, sharp fonts if I'm staring at text all day.

I purchased two LG 27" 4k monitors to replace my 27" 1440 Acer monitors. I have to say the difference is night and day vs the 1440's in the Mac. To be fair, fonts look a lot better in Windows 10 on the 2560s (think I've read that Windows is better at font rendering)

Anyway, back to the new LGs. I've just switched the resolution to what my Mac considers the default for these monitors - which I believe is 4k scaled down to 1080. Some apps are rather 'chunky' like this, but I can adjust the font size in my IDEs etc. Having two monitors also helps with the whole screen estate thing.

For me, I'm preferring this over the 'looks like 2560 x 1440' setting - which although has better sizing, the fonts aren't as sharp.


Good luck.

 

[dallegre]

Definitely depends on use case/personal preferences. I use an Asus Pro Art PA278CV for photo editing. It's a 1440p monitor with DCI-P3 support. I prefer 1440p in a 27" for photo editing in my space. For photo/video editing the Pro Art line is a solid value imho.

 

[Bebel]

I use the LG 5K Ultrafine and it’s an amazing combo with my 16” M1 Max.

 

[StuartC]

I just invested in a Viewsonic vp2768a 4k to use primarily for photo editing connected to my 16 inch M1 pro I have found it to be excellent either scaled or native.

 

[m021478]

As far as how I intend to use the monitor… I don’t do any gaming on my computer. I mostly use it for photo editing and browsing the web. I am a fan of how the Retina displays I’ve used in the past renders text so clearly compared to non-retina displays

 

[StuartC]

I think this depends on how you use it, for instance how far away you will be from the monitor. Yes, the text is very small on my 27inch 4K but usable in the context of my photo editing, if it becomes difficult I do have the option of scaling the text.

 

[diggy33]

I use an LG 32UN500-W and its great for my needs. I think the colors are good on it, havent noticed any light bleed, and its super responsive (I switch between my Mac and Dell Precision). I run it at 3840x2160 and scaled to 125% for slightly larger/clearer text. I've got no issues with this monitor. My other monitor is a Dell U2719D that I use for my work laptop. Its okay, but to my eyes the LG panel is much sharper.

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[CosmoPilot]

I have the Dell U4021QW (40" 5K2K display w/TB 3 & 90W PD for charging). Gorgeous display (front and back) and fast charges my MBP! Lots of YouTubes on this monitor...I highly recommend.