MacBook Pro External Monitor

otisootiso
Posted:
in Current Mac Hardware
I have a mid 2010 Macbook Pro but will be upgrading to a new Macbook Pro next year. I am looking for a monitor with up to date technology (4/5k?) that will be compatible with the latest Macbook Pro as well as my older laptop. I am looking to spend under $1000, closer to $500. I will be using it for web and graphic design.

I’m hoping I can use a Dual-Link DVI adapter and/or cable. My mid 2010 Macbook Pro is 2560x1600 (30hz). It has a miniDisplay port and USB 2.0.

https://support.apple.com/kb/SP582?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US

I appreciate the guidance.

Comments

  • Reply 1 of 4
    Mike WuertheleMike Wuerthele Posts: 6,942administrator
    There's no way you're going to get 4K on your 2010. Most of the third-party displays these days use HDMI, and full-size DisplayPort.

    Cabling for MiniDisplayPort and DisplayPort is easy. You just need to find a monitor you like. As we speak, I'm on a 2016 MacBook Pro and a 4K Acer CB281HK, and I'm very pleased. It supports 2560x1600, but that's not its native resolution, obviously.
  • Reply 2 of 4
    otisootiso Posts: 3member
    Thank you for your reply. 

    If I use the cabling for MiniDisplayPort and DisplayPort will I be able to use the 4K Acer CB281HK (or any 4k monitors) with my 2010 MacBook Pro even though it won't be at 4k? I don't really want to buy an external monitor just to use with my 2010 MBP as I will be replacing it soon, but I can't afford to buy both a new MacBook Pro and a new monitor at the moment. 

    I appreciate your time and input.


  • Reply 3 of 4
    Mike WuertheleMike Wuerthele Posts: 6,942administrator
    otiso said:
    Thank you for your reply. 

    If I use the cabling for MiniDisplayPort and DisplayPort will I be able to use the 4K Acer CB281HK (or any 4k monitors) with my 2010 MacBook Pro even though it won't be at 4k? I don't really want to buy an external monitor just to use with my 2010 MBP as I will be replacing it soon, but I can't afford to buy both a new MacBook Pro and a new monitor at the moment. 

    I appreciate your time and input.


    It's not optimal, but it'll work. Displays really want to be at their native resolutions, and going below that isn't ideal, but workable. It'll certainly prevent you from needing to buy a 1080p display now, and a 4K later.

    There aren't any affordable 5K displays that you can buy now, that won't cost as much as a MacBook Pro.
  • Reply 4 of 4
    otisootiso Posts: 3member
    Thank you, I appreciate the info.
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