What is the best monitor my MBP can run?

[DylanM]

I have been trying to figure this out for a few weeks now, but I can't seem to find any answers so I registered here in hopes I could find some answers.

Here is my computer (2.8GHz): https://support.apple.com/kb/SP704?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US

I like the retina screen, and how crispy and clear it is and would like to have the same quality in the monitor, I am guessing the monitor has to have a size limitation to retain that quality but I'd like to know the biggest I can go.

I make music in Ableton, and I sometimes play a videogame called Heroes Of Newerth, I watch movies and I like to do digital art. Will likely be getting into video editing, but nothing like making video game graphics etc

Any help would be MUCH appreciated. And particularly, a specific monitor (brand, model etc)

 

[utgjon]

The 'best' monitor you can run with that is a 4k monitor that connects via Mini-DP (thunderbolt 2) port, or via HDMI.

Size is then up to you as to what looks good.

I was considering the LG 27UD88 for a while, which seems to get very good reviews.

It won't be quite the same quality as the in-built retina display, but it'll do a good job.

 

[Samuelsan2001]

4K at 60hz with a mini display port to display port or HDMI 2 cable.

 

[BananaX]

LG 27UD88 or LG 27UD68 both has very good reviews. 68 has no USB hub and $200 - $300 cheaper than 88. I am rocking UD68.

For 4k 27inch display, the best retina feel resolution will be 1920 x 1080. Slightly smaller space compare to 1440p scale. That is why Apple only have 4k display in 21.5inch. 5k for 27inch.

 

[ZapNZs]

As others have noted, 4k (UHD) @60hz. However, if you want 60hz, you will need to use the Thunderbolt/Mini DisplayPort (either mDP--> DP or mDP-->HDMI 2.0) because the built-in HDMI output only supports 30hz with 4k IIRC. And, with what you described from a usage perspective, you will probably find 30hz to be totally unacceptable.

If you go 4k, it will run HOT-especially if using the system in extended mode where you are using both the built-in display and the external display simultaneously. You will lose some performance. If you are playing games or doing other activities that are pushing the CPU or GPU (which it sounds like you are), this will become much more noticeable because the system will have substantial thermal throttling due to the massive amount of heat being generated. The excessive fan noise may also be an issue.

IMO, a 24-inch QHD (1440p) display is worth consideration. It's a lot cheaper, equates to far less heat, equates to far less noise, and a good model still looks brilliant.

 

[alphaswift]

What I use. About a year old, works really well.

 

[DylanM]

The 'best' monitor you can run with that is a 4k monitor that connects via Mini-DP (thunderbolt 2) port, or via HDMI.

Size is then up to you as to what looks good.

I was considering the LG 27UD88 for a while, which seems to get very good reviews.

It won't be quite the same quality as the in-built retina display, but it'll do a good job.

4K at 60hz with a mini display port to display port or HDMI 2 cable.

LG 27UD88 or LG 27UD68 both has very good reviews. 68 has no USB hub and $200 - $300 cheaper than 88. I am rocking UD68.

For 4k 27inch display, the best retina feel resolution will be 1920 x 1080. Slightly smaller space compare to 1440p scale. That is why Apple only have 4k display in 21.5inch. 5k for 27inch.

As others have noted, 4k (UHD) @60hz. However, if you want 60hz, you will need to use the Thunderbolt/Mini DisplayPort (either mDP--> DP or mDP-->HDMI 2.0) because the built-in HDMI output only supports 30hz with 4k IIRC. And, with what you described from a usage perspective, you will probably find 30hz to be totally unacceptable.

If you go 4k, it will run HOT-especially if using the system in extended mode where you are using both the built-in display and the external display simultaneously. You will lose some performance. If you are playing games or doing other activities that are pushing the CPU or GPU (which it sounds like you are), this will become much more noticeable because the system will have substantial thermal throttling due to the massive amount of heat being generated. The excessive fan noise may also be an issue.

IMO, a 24-inch QHD (1440p) display is worth consideration. It's a lot cheaper, equates to far less heat, equates to far less noise, and a good model still looks brilliant.

What I use. About a year old, works really well.

Thanks for the response guys.

"It won't be quite the same quality as the in-built retina display, but it'll do a good job"

^Is there not a screen I can get that will be the same quality as the retina screen? And if not, is this the best/nearest option?

Thank you!

 

[BananaX]

You can always buy the LG 5K on Apple store. They introduce the 5k display with MacBook Pro 15.

Best match until the new Apple display, if they are going to introduce one this year.

 

[utgjon]

Thanks for the response guys.

"It won't be quite the same quality as the in-built retina display, but it'll do a good job"

^Is there not a screen I can get that will be the same quality as the retina screen? And if not, is this the best/nearest option?

Thank you!

Not with your era of Macbook Pro, unfortunately. Apple never released an external retina quality display during the 2012-2015 period.

The crucial difference between another brand of monitor and your laptop will be how 'glossy' the display is. Apple tend to be the glossiest of all, most aftermarket brands are more matte.


Please be aware that your era MBP also isn't compatible with the current Apple/LG displays. Despite this, you CAN connect them via thunderbolt 2 > thunderbolt 3 connector. BUT, you won't be getting the best out of the display. If you've got the opportunity, you can see how it looks in an apple store, as the Mac Pros are currently connected to them and they only run on TB2.

 

[strawbale]

As others have noted, 4k (UHD) @60hz. However, if you want 60hz, you will need to use the Thunderbolt/Mini DisplayPort (either mDP--> DP or mDP-->HDMI 2.0) because the built-in HDMI output only supports 30hz with 4k IIRC. And, with what you described from a usage perspective, you will probably find 30hz to be totally unacceptable.

If you go 4k, it will run HOT-especially if using the system in extended mode where you are using both the built-in display and the external display simultaneously. You will lose some performance. If you are playing games or doing other activities that are pushing the CPU or GPU (which it sounds like you are), this will become much more noticeable because the system will have substantial thermal throttling due to the massive amount of heat being generated. The excessive fan noise may also be an issue.

IMO, a 24-inch QHD (1440p) display is worth consideration. It's a lot cheaper, equates to far less heat, equates to far less noise, and a good model still looks brilliant.

Would this (excess heat/noise) also be a problem with the iGPU-only version of this (2014) 15" model in combination with a 4k@60Hz external monitor? Or just (a problem) when in extended mode?

 

[DylanM]

Not with your era of Macbook Pro, unfortunately. Apple never released an external retina quality display during the 2012-2015 period.

The crucial difference between another brand of monitor and your laptop will be how 'glossy' the display is. Apple tend to be the glossiest of all, most aftermarket brands are more matte.


Please be aware that your era MBP also isn't compatible with the current Apple/LG displays. Despite this, you CAN connect them via thunderbolt 2 > thunderbolt 3 connector. BUT, you won't be getting the best out of the display. If you've got the opportunity, you can see how it looks in an apple store, as the Mac Pros are currently connected to them and they only run on TB2.

thank you for your articulation. Can you recommend a monitor brand/model please?

Thank you

 

[utgjon]

I’d still be tempted to go with the LG I mentioned earlier in the thread... seems like good value

 

[ZapNZs]

Would this (excess heat/noise) also be a problem with the iGPU-only version of this (2014) 15" model in combination with a 4k@60Hz external monitor? Or just (a problem) when in extended mode?

I can't speak to the 2.2 GHz iGPU model, but with my 2014 dGPU 2.5, it increases the idle temperature by a good 40+ degrees (I can't say if that applies to everyone, though, given I do have some processes running even at what I consider to be 'idle'). For heavier workloads, that carries the potential for slowdowns IMO.

 

[strawbale]

I can't speak to the 2.2 GHz iGPU model, but with my 2014 dGPU 2.5, it increases the idle temperature by a good 40+ degrees (I can't say if that applies to everyone, though, given I do have some processes running even at what I consider to be 'idle'). For heavier workloads, that carries the potential for slowdowns IMO.

Thanks!