best monitors mac mini - cover

Best Monitor For Mac Mini of 2024 (inc. M1 & M2 Pro)

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The Mac Mini is a favorite with many graphic designers, video editors, gamers and music producers on a budget because it’s one of the cheapest Macs on the market.

In fact we think the M2 Mac Mini is the best value Mac on the market in 2024.

Apple even dropped the price of the M2 Mac Mini by $100 compared to the previous M1 Mac Mini making it an even more attractive machine.

However, since this little pocket rocket doesn’t come with a display included, you need to buy an external one separately.

We’ve got you covered though as we reviewed and tested a range of excellent 4K and 5K monitors from 27 inches and above to go with the Mac Mini in 2024.

Can You Use Any Monitor With The Mac Mini?

best monitor m1 mac mini - ports

You can use virtually any monitor with a Mac Mini, whether it’s an Intel model or one with the M1, M2, or M2 Pro chip, as long as the display has a USB-C/Thunderbolt port (marked with a lightning bolt) or an HDMI port.

This flexibility means you don’t have to invest in the high-end Apple Studio Display; any compatible non-Apple monitor will work just fine.

Why Choose Thunderbolt or USB-C?

Thunderbolt and USB-C connections are often preferred over HDMI due to their stability, ease of use, and faster image transfer speeds. They support higher resolutions, including 5K, 6K, and even 8K displays.

Additionally, if you connect a MacBook Pro to a monitor using Thunderbolt or USB-C, these connections will also charge your laptop.

Upgraded HDMI Capabilities

The latest M2 and M2 Pro Mac Minis feature an advanced HDMI 2.1 port, offering significantly more power than the HDMI 2.0 port on the older M1 Mac Mini.

While HDMI 2.0 on the M1 Mac Mini could handle only one 4K display at 60Hz, the HDMI 2.1 port on the M2 and M2 Pro supports up to 8K resolution at 60Hz or 4K at up to 240Hz.

Connecting a TV

You can easily connect a TV to your Mac Mini using the HDMI port. For a wireless connection, if your Mac Mini is linked to an Apple TV, you can use AirPlay to connect to a TV.

Network and Connectivity:

Mac Minis also come with an Ethernet port, which allows for network connections. Some monitors, like the Dell UltraSharp U2723QE, support this feature, providing additional connectivity options.

For more, check out our guide on how to connect a display to a Mac Mini.

Here then is our roundup of the best displays to use with Mac Minis in 2024.

1. BenQ PD3225U (4K)

benq PD3225U monitor - front

The BenQ PD3225U is our top monitor pick for the Mac Mini thanks to its amazing color depth, out-of-the-box calibration for Macs and overall quality.

BenQ has made this monitor extremely Mac-friendly with a special “M-book” mode, ensuring it works seamlessly with Macs compared to many other monitors.

An upgrade from the older BenQ PD3220U, the PD3225U offers significantly improved brightness (400 nits vs. 250 nits), deeper blacks, and greater color depth.

For designers and photographers, the PD3225U is perfect for editing images thanks to its crystal-clear sharpness and color accuracy, supported by BenQ’s ColorTone software.

The monitor supports a DCI-P3 99% color gamut, making it suitable for professionals working with Adobe RGB profiled images and RAW photos.

Despite its 140 ppi pixel density, the display remains crisp and clear.

There’s lots of connectivity options including two Thunderbolt 3 ports, USB-C ports, HDMI, and DisplayPort.

Additional features include an external HotKey puck for control, a KVM switch, and the ability to hot-swap color profiles.

While the internal speakers are basic, they are sufficient for general use, though external speakers are recommended for better sound quality. Although not designed for gaming, it performs adequately at 60Hz.

You can read our full BenQ PD3225U review for more.

Pros:

  • Mac mode for seamless connection to all kinds of Macs
  • Quick access via HotKey Puck
  • Excellent color depth and blacks with wide P3 color gamut
  • Thunderbolt 3 ports for daisy-chaining
  • Brightness control from Mac keyboard
  • Superb ColorTone software
  • Multiple port connections

Cons:

  • Poor internal speaker quality
  • No integrated webcam
  • Only 4K resolution

2. Asus ProArt PA279CV (4K)

asus pro art display pa279CV

If the BenQ is out of your price range, then the Asus ProArt Display PA279CV is ideal for those seeking excellent color accuracy on a budget.

At just under $400, the PA279CV is an absolute bargain compared to other displays although that is just for the 27 inch display not the bigger versions.

Available in sizes from 27 to 34 inches, the PA279CV supports 4K HDR UHD with an IPS 178° wide viewing angle panel.

The display offers a wide color gamut of 709 and Delta E < 2 color accuracy.

Connectivity includes two HDMI 2.0 ports and a USB 3.1 hub. Adaptive-Sync technology ensures smooth performance for video editing and gaming.

For those on a budget, the Asus ProArt PA279CV is easily the best value external display you’ll find for the Mac Mini.

For more check out our full Asus ProArt Display 4K review.

Pros:

  • Excellent color accuracy
  • 4K HDR support
  • Excellent value for money
  • High brightness levels
  • Available in multiple sizes
  • Various presets for artists and designers

Cons:

  • No Adobe RGB support
  • Not suitable for fast gaming
  • Low PPI and brightness

3. Apple Studio Display (5K)

apple studio display

If your budget stretches, then you really can’t do much better than stick with Apple and plump for the Apple Studio Display.

As you’d expect, the 27-inch 5K Apple Studio Display offers seamless compatibility with Macs and excellent automatic color calibration with macOS.

Released in March 2022 as a more affordable version of Apple’s $5,000 Pro XDR Display, the Studio Display supports 5K2K resolution with 218 PPI.

It features a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage, a three-mic array, and a six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio, making it ideal for music production.

The adjustable stand is included, but you’ll need to purchase a VESA mount adapter for swivel functionality.

For more you can check out our full Apple Studio Display review.

Buy on Amazon

Pros:

  • Made by Apple
  • 5K resolution
  • 3 Thunderbolt ports
  • Automatic sRGB color calibration
  • 12MP ultra-wide camera
  • Three-mic array
  • Six internal speakers

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Maximum size is 27 inches

4. LG 34BK95U-W (5K)

lg34bk95uw monitor

The LG UltraFine 34-inch monitor is the best ultrawide monitor for the Mac Mini, offering stunning 5K resolution and 163 ppi.

LG collaborated with Apple to develop the UltraFine series, featuring a panel similar to the 27-inch 5K iMac display.

The 34BK95U-W supports 5K2K resolution (5120 x 2160), HDR, and wide viewing angles, making it ideal for desktop publishing and video editing. It includes an adjustable stand and a VESA mount option.

Connectivity options include HDMI, Thunderbolt 3, and three USB-C ports. The 60Hz refresh rate is adequate for most gaming needs.

You can read our full LG 34BK95U-W review for more.

Pros:

  • 5K resolution with 5K2K support
  • 163 ppi
  • Multiple ports including HDMI and Thunderbolt
  • Large screen estate
  • HDR support

Cons:

  • Sound and brightness control not available from Mac keyboard
  • Swivel requires a VESA stand
  • No integrated webcam

5. Samsung ViewFinity S9 (5K – Up To 50% Off)

samsung viewfinity s9

The 27 inch Samsung ViewFinity S9 is a strong alternative to the Apple Studio Display although unfortunately, it costs the same as Apple’s monitor too.

Priced similarly at $1,599, it offers a 5120 x 2880 resolution and a 10-bit color gamut covering 99% of the DCI-P3 spectrum.

The S9 features HDR600 support, 600 nits of brightness, a 4K webcam, one Thunderbolt 4 port, three USB-C ports, and a mini DisplayPort.

It includes a remote control and Smart TV functionality with preinstalled apps like Netflix and YouTube.

The display also supports wireless Bluetooth connectivity for speakers, keyboards, and game controllers, as well as AirPlay.

The sound system features two 5W stereo speakers, and there’s split screen support with Samsung MultiView.

At the moment, you can get up to 50% off the ViewFinity S9 on Amazon which is an absolute steal for a monitor of this quality.

Note that the deal is on Amazon US and other regions may vary.

For more details, check out our comparison of the Samsung ViewFinity S9 and Apple Studio Display.

You can check out our look at the Samsung ViewFinity S9 vs Apple Studio Display for more.

Pros:

  • Similar specifications to Apple Studio Display
  • 218 PPI
  • 5K resolution
  • HDR600 support
  • Remote control and Smart TV functionality

Cons:

  • Large external power supply
  • Same price as Apple Studio Display

6. Dell UltraSharp U2720Q (4K)

dell ultrasharp u2720Q

The Dell UltraSharp U2720Q is a great budget-friendly 27-inch 4K monitor for the Mac Mini. Priced at under $600, it offers excellent value with HDR support, which enhances image contrast.

It features two USB-C ports and one HDMI port, although it lacks a Thunderbolt port.

The adjustable stand allows for swivel, pivot, and vertical adjustments.

If you need an Ethernet connection for your monitor, you should also check out the newer Dell UltraSharp U2723QE which is an upgraded version of this model and allows you to connect the display directly via Ethernet to the Mac Mini.

You can read our full Dell UltraSharp U22720Q review for more.

Pros:

  • Crisp 4K quality images
  • Excellent color gamut
  • Great value for money
  • HDR support

Cons:

  • Poor brightness controls
  • No internal speakers
  • No internal webcam
  • No Thunderbolt port

Pricing & Specs Comparison Table

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the top six displays from our list including specs and pricing.

BenQ PD3225U 32 Inch 4K IPS Black UHD Thunderbolt Monitor for MacBook, AQCOLOR, 98% P3, 100% sRGB & Rec.709, DeltaE ≤2, Factory Calibration, USB-C 85W, USB Hub, Daisy Chain, KVM Switch
ASUS ProArt Display 27” 4K HDR Professional Monitor (PA279CRV) - IPS, UHD (3840 x 2160), 99% DCI-P3/Adobe RGB, ΔE < 2, Calman Verified, USB-C PD 96W, DisplayPort, Daisy-Chain, Height Adjustable
Apple Studio Display - Standard Glass - VESA Mount Adapter
LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine 34" 21:9 5K 2K (5120 x 2160) Nano IPS LED UltraWide Monitor, 600 cd/m² HDR, Thunderbolt 3 / USB Type-C Inputs Black
SAMSUNG 27" ViewFinity S9 Series 5K Computer Monitor, Thunderbolt 4, DisplayPort, Matte Display, 4K Slimfit-Camera, Slim Metal Design, AirPlay, Smart-TV Apps, Gaming Hub, LS27C900PANXZA, 2023
Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 27 Inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) LED Backlit LCD IPS USB-C Monitor (7GZ651)
BenQ PD3225U 32 Inch 4K IPS Black UHD Thunderbolt Monitor for MacBook, AQCOLOR, 98% P3, 100% sRGB & Rec.709, DeltaE ≤2, Factory Calibration, USB-C 85W, USB Hub, Daisy Chain, KVM Switch
ASUS ProArt Display 27” 4K HDR Professional Monitor (PA279CRV) - IPS, UHD (3840 x 2160), 99% DCI-P3/Adobe RGB, ΔE < 2, Calman Verified, USB-C PD 96W, DisplayPort, Daisy-Chain, Height Adjustable
Apple Studio Display - Standard Glass - VESA Mount Adapter
LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine 34" 21:9 5K 2K (5120 x 2160) Nano IPS LED UltraWide Monitor, 600 cd/m² HDR, Thunderbolt 3 / USB Type-C Inputs Black
SAMSUNG 27" ViewFinity S9 Series 5K Computer Monitor, Thunderbolt 4, DisplayPort, Matte Display, 4K Slimfit-Camera, Slim Metal Design, AirPlay, Smart-TV Apps, Gaming Hub, LS27C900PANXZA, 2023
Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 27 Inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) LED Backlit LCD IPS USB-C Monitor (7GZ651)
Screen Size
32 inch
27 inch
27 inch
27 inch
27 inch
27 inch
Refresh Rate
60Hz
60Hz
60Hz
60Hz
60Hz
60Hz
Pixels Per Inch (ppi)
140
163
218
218
218
164
Resolution
4K 3840 x 2160 pixels
4K 3840 x 2160
5K2K 5120 x 2880 Pixels
5K2K 5120 x 2880
5K 5120 x 2880
4K 3480 x 2160
Ports
2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, USB-C ports, HDMI, DisplayPort
USB-C, 2 HDMI, USB 3.1, DisplayPort
1 Thunderbolt 3 port, 3 USB-C ports
1 Thunderbolt 3, 3 USB-C
1 Thunderbolt 4 port, 3 USB-C ports, mini DisplayPort
2 USB-C, 1 HDMI, 3 USB-A, DisplayPort
Brightness
400 nits
402 nits
600 nits
600 nits
600 nits
350 nits
Color Support
DCI-P3 99% color gamut
Delta E < 2 color accuracy
One billion colors & P3 wide color
One billion colors and P3 wide color
99% DCI-P3
DCI-P3 99% color gamut
Speakers
Yes
No
Six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio
Six speaker surround with spatial audio
Yes
No
Webcam
No
No
12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage
12MP webcam with Center Stage support
Yes
No
Special Features
Mac mode, HotKey puck, KVM switch
Color presets, ProArt Palletes
Face tracking, Studio-quality three-mic array
Face tracking, studio quality three mic array
HDR600 support
Supports HDR, LED Backlight
$999.99
$449.00
$1,499.99
$849.99
$819.60
$719.99
-
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
-
Amazon Prime
-
BenQ PD3225U 32 Inch 4K IPS Black UHD Thunderbolt Monitor for MacBook, AQCOLOR, 98% P3, 100% sRGB & Rec.709, DeltaE ≤2, Factory Calibration, USB-C 85W, USB Hub, Daisy Chain, KVM Switch
BenQ PD3225U 32 Inch 4K IPS Black UHD Thunderbolt Monitor for MacBook, AQCOLOR, 98% P3, 100% sRGB & Rec.709, DeltaE ≤2, Factory Calibration, USB-C 85W, USB Hub, Daisy Chain, KVM Switch
Screen Size
32 inch
Refresh Rate
60Hz
Pixels Per Inch (ppi)
140
Resolution
4K 3840 x 2160 pixels
Ports
2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, USB-C ports, HDMI, DisplayPort
Brightness
400 nits
Color Support
DCI-P3 99% color gamut
Speakers
Yes
Webcam
No
Special Features
Mac mode, HotKey puck, KVM switch
$999.99
-
ASUS ProArt Display 27” 4K HDR Professional Monitor (PA279CRV) - IPS, UHD (3840 x 2160), 99% DCI-P3/Adobe RGB, ΔE < 2, Calman Verified, USB-C PD 96W, DisplayPort, Daisy-Chain, Height Adjustable
ASUS ProArt Display 27” 4K HDR Professional Monitor (PA279CRV) - IPS, UHD (3840 x 2160), 99% DCI-P3/Adobe RGB, ΔE < 2, Calman Verified, USB-C PD 96W, DisplayPort, Daisy-Chain, Height Adjustable
Screen Size
27 inch
Refresh Rate
60Hz
Pixels Per Inch (ppi)
163
Resolution
4K 3840 x 2160
Ports
USB-C, 2 HDMI, USB 3.1, DisplayPort
Brightness
402 nits
Color Support
Delta E < 2 color accuracy
Speakers
No
Webcam
No
Special Features
Color presets, ProArt Palletes
$449.00
Amazon Prime
Apple Studio Display - Standard Glass - VESA Mount Adapter
Apple Studio Display - Standard Glass - VESA Mount Adapter
Screen Size
27 inch
Refresh Rate
60Hz
Pixels Per Inch (ppi)
218
Resolution
5K2K 5120 x 2880 Pixels
Ports
1 Thunderbolt 3 port, 3 USB-C ports
Brightness
600 nits
Color Support
One billion colors & P3 wide color
Speakers
Six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio
Webcam
12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage
Special Features
Face tracking, Studio-quality three-mic array
$1,499.99
Amazon Prime
LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine 34" 21:9 5K 2K (5120 x 2160) Nano IPS LED UltraWide Monitor, 600 cd/m² HDR, Thunderbolt 3 / USB Type-C Inputs Black
LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine 34" 21:9 5K 2K (5120 x 2160) Nano IPS LED UltraWide Monitor, 600 cd/m² HDR, Thunderbolt 3 / USB Type-C Inputs Black
Screen Size
27 inch
Refresh Rate
60Hz
Pixels Per Inch (ppi)
218
Resolution
5K2K 5120 x 2880
Ports
1 Thunderbolt 3, 3 USB-C
Brightness
600 nits
Color Support
One billion colors and P3 wide color
Speakers
Six speaker surround with spatial audio
Webcam
12MP webcam with Center Stage support
Special Features
Face tracking, studio quality three mic array
$849.99
-
SAMSUNG 27" ViewFinity S9 Series 5K Computer Monitor, Thunderbolt 4, DisplayPort, Matte Display, 4K Slimfit-Camera, Slim Metal Design, AirPlay, Smart-TV Apps, Gaming Hub, LS27C900PANXZA, 2023
SAMSUNG 27" ViewFinity S9 Series 5K Computer Monitor, Thunderbolt 4, DisplayPort, Matte Display, 4K Slimfit-Camera, Slim Metal Design, AirPlay, Smart-TV Apps, Gaming Hub, LS27C900PANXZA, 2023
Screen Size
27 inch
Refresh Rate
60Hz
Pixels Per Inch (ppi)
218
Resolution
5K 5120 x 2880
Ports
1 Thunderbolt 4 port, 3 USB-C ports, mini DisplayPort
Brightness
600 nits
Color Support
99% DCI-P3
Speakers
Yes
Webcam
Yes
Special Features
HDR600 support
$819.60
Amazon Prime
Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 27 Inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) LED Backlit LCD IPS USB-C Monitor (7GZ651)
Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 27 Inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) LED Backlit LCD IPS USB-C Monitor (7GZ651)
Screen Size
27 inch
Refresh Rate
60Hz
Pixels Per Inch (ppi)
164
Resolution
4K 3480 x 2160
Ports
2 USB-C, 1 HDMI, 3 USB-A, DisplayPort
Brightness
350 nits
Color Support
DCI-P3 99% color gamut
Speakers
No
Webcam
No
Special Features
Supports HDR, LED Backlight
$719.99
-

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