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Looking for used display advice

M

MSFT

macrumors member
Original poster
Dec 14, 2013
63
1
I'm looking for a used display on eBay in the 27-30" range to plug my 2010 MBP into when I am at home. The display will just be used for doing office type work. I'd like to keep this as inexpensive as possible.

I understand that my MBP only outputs to 1280x800, but what resolution should I be looking at to "future proof" for my next laptop (which I imagine will be something with Retina).

Also, what other features should I be looking for in a budget display? Right now I just have my eye on some Dell, HP, Samsung, and ASUS brand displays.
 
You are inaccurate about the video output.
Your internal display would have a native resolution of 1280 x 800
The external output can support up to 2560 x 1600, but typically your external display, particularly on the cheap, will be 1920 x 1080.

Your 2010 MBPro has a Mini DisplayPort connector.
Your external display may have a DVI, or maybe a DisplayPort, or Mini DisplayPort connector.
All you need is the proper adapter for whichever connection you have on the display.
I like to find a cable that is long enough, and has the connector that you need on either end (no adapter), but an adapter + cable is fine, too. I just prefer the "neatness" of a continuous cable :D
That "cheap" display will work very nicely with your older MBPro. It WON'T have as good a result with a retina MBPro, as the picture won't have the ultra-sharp retina image like the internal screen will have - similar to what you might see now if you connect your MBPro to a big screen TV.
(unless you get a used/cheap display that provides 4k capability, but that won't be your cheap choice, either. :D )

Dell, HP, and ASUS each have decent displays.
I suggest that you also try looking at a BestBuy for an "open-box" deal.
 
Thanks for your answer. Yes, I already have a Thunderbolt --> DVI adapter that I use to hook up my MBP to a 21" screen.

Good tip on the Best Buy open box deal. That's how I bought my sound system!

DeltaMac said:
You are inaccurate about the video output.
Your internal display would have a native resolution of 1280 x 800
The external output can support up to 2560 x 1600, but typically your external display, particularly on the cheap, will be 1920 x 1080.

Your 2010 MBPro has a Mini DisplayPort connector.
Your external display may have a DVI, or maybe a DisplayPort, or Mini DisplayPort connector.
All you need is the proper adapter for whichever connection you have on the display.
I like to find a cable that is long enough, and has the connector that you need on either end (no adapter), but an adapter + cable is fine, too. I just prefer the "neatness" of a continuous cable :D
That "cheap" display will work very nicely with your older MBPro. It WON'T have as good a result with a retina MBPro, as the picture won't have the ultra-sharp retina image like the internal screen will have - similar to what you might see now if you connect your MBPro to a big screen TV.
(unless you get a used/cheap display that provides 4k capability, but that won't be your cheap choice, either. :D )

Dell, HP, and ASUS each have decent displays.
I suggest that you also try looking at a BestBuy for an "open-box" deal.
Click to expand...
 
Next question, can our laptops successfully support an "UltraWide" monitor at 2560x1080?
 
MSFT said:
Next question, can our laptops successfully support an "UltraWide" monitor at 2560x1080?
Click to expand...

the maximum resolution supported on an external display is 2560x1600, i have the same year MBP...
 
But is it able to work at a different aspect ratio (i.e., "ultra wide", which is something like 21:9)?
 
Yes, that higher resolution (regardless of the "ultrawide), will need the proper adapter to get there.
With a DVI connection, you will need to make sure that your adapter supports dual-link DVI (not all do, and should tell you in the specs for the adapter)
You would only be concerned about that if you need to use the DVI connection.
A DisplayPort to DisplayPort (or Mini DisplayPort) should work without needing to replace that adapter.
 
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