Finding the best ultrawide monitor for your MacBook doesn’t have to be hard. Here is a list of the best ultrawide monitors for MacBook Pro.
With support for video and power over USB-C, these monitors will work with all of the latest Mac notebooks.
If you’re in a hurry, here are the best options in the market compared:Table of Contents
The Best Ultrawide Monitors for MacBook Compared
Image | Product | Details | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Dell UltraSharp 38 Curved Monitor (U3818DW) | Resolution: 3840x1600, 60Hz Size: 38" PPI: 111 USB-C: 1x, 100W SplitScreen Software: Yes, Dell Easy Arrange KVM: Yes VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | Samsung CJ890 | Resolution: 3840X1200, 120Hz Size: 43" PPI: 92.7 USB-C: 2x, 95W SplitScreen Software: Yes, Easy Settings Box KVM: Yes VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | Philips 346B1C | Resolution: 3440x1440, 100Hz* Size: 34" PPI: 110 USB-C: 1x, 90W SplitScreen Software: Yes, MultiView KVM: Yes VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | LG 49WL95C-W | Resolution: 5120X1440, 60Hz Size: 49" PPI: 108.54 USB-C: 1x, 85W SplitScreen Software: Yes, OnScreen Control KVM: Yes VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | Samsung CJ791 | Resolution: 3440x1440, 100Hz Size: 34" PPI: 109.68 USB-C: 2x, 85W SplitScreen Software: Yes, Easy Settings Box KVM: No VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | Samsung CH890 | Resolution: 3440x1440, 100Hz Size: 34" PPI: 109 USB-C: 1x, 65W SplitScreen Software: Yes, Easy Settings Box KVM: No VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | LG 38WK95C-W | Resolution: 3840x1600, 75Hz Size: 38" PPI: 111 USB-C: 1x, 60W SplitScreen Software: Yes, OnScreen Control KVM: No VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | ViewSonic VP3481 | Resolution: 3440x1440, 100Hz Size: 34" PPI: 109 USB-C: 1x, 60W SplitScreen Software: Yes, ViewSplit KVM: Yes VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | LG 34UM69G-B | Resolution: 2560x1080, 75Hz Size: 34" PPI: 82 USB-C: 1x, no PD SplitScreen Software: Yes, OnScreen Control KVM: No VESA: 100x100 mm | Check on Amazon |
![]() | BenQ EX3501R | Resolution: 3440x1440, 100Hz Size: 35 PPI: 103 USB-C: 1x, no PD SplitScreen Software: No KVM: No VESA: N/A | Check on Amazon |
Why Ultrawide Monitors
Mac notebooks have excellent displays, but sometimes they’re too small for productivity. Pairing your MacBook Pro with an ultrawide monitor is the best way to add more screen real estate for multitasking and optimal productivity. These ultrawide displays will fit perfectly on your office or home setup.
If you’ve ever used a multi-monitor setup, you know the hassle of working with the distracting bezels and uneven picture quality across the different monitors. Ultrawide monitors provide more screen real estate in a single, seamless desktop. You can split the screen to fit more windows for multitasking or connect multiple devices such as the MacBook Pro and Mac Pro.
Ultrawide monitors are excellent for productivity as they offer more screen real estate for multitasking, without the weird bezels at the center.When looking for an ultrawide monitor for your MacBook Pro, you should be aware of the latest trends, especially in the latest Macs. If you want a detailed buying guide for ultrawide monitors, check the buying guide at the end of the article.
To ensure you get the perfect monitor for your Mac, make sure to check the below trends and changes in the Mac ecosystem.
MacBook and Thunderbolt 3
Apple adopted Thunderbolt 3 as the primary connectivity port for its MacBook lineup in 2016. All MacBook Pros released in 2016 or later and MacBook Air introduced in 2018 or later have Thunderbolt 3 ports only. There are no HDMI or DisplayPort inputs.
Therefore, when looking to buy an ultrawide monitor for MacBook Pro, it must have USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 ports. Otherwise, you’ll have to use adapters. All monitors featured in this roundup have a Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C connectivity.
Charging Over USB-C
USB-C supports data, video, and power up to 100W over a single cable, meaning you can use the same connection for display and charging your MacBook. However, monitors have different power delivery ratings, and some don’t even support charging over USB-C.
Power Delivery (PD) is an essential factor to consider if you want to charge your MacBook over USB-C/Thunderbolt 3. There are different power adapters for Mac notebooks such as 45W, 60W, 85W, 87W, and 96W. Make sure to determine the specific adapter before choosing a monitor.
You can use a monitor with high power wattage, such as 100W without issues. It won’t charge your MacBook any charge faster or cause any problems; the laptop will only draw the required power from the monitor.
On the other hand, using a monitor with low power delivery than your MacBook’s power adapter won’t damage your laptop, but it will charge much slower than usual. If you charge and use the MacBook at the same time, the monitor’s low power output may not be able to charge the battery. It’s better to charge with the stock charger while using or charge before use.
The Best Ultrawide Monitors for MacBook Reviews
1. Dell UltraSharp 38 Curved Monitor (U3818DW) – Best Ultrawide Monitor for MacBook Pro
Dell UltraSharp U3818DW is the best ultrawide monitor for MacBook Pro. It is a 38-inch ultrawide with a USB-C port that supports video, data, and 100W power output enough to charge the MBP.
Dell U3818DW comes with an attractive design featuring thin bezels and a 2300R curved screen. It provides an expansive and immersive display with minimal distractions for improved multitasking. Curved screens reduce eye movement across the screen, which lets you focus on your work.
The monitor comes with a sturdy, ergonomic stand that provides a range of movement for comfortable viewing experience. It supports tilt, swivel, and height adjustments to determine the best angle for optimal productivity. The stand also has a built-in cable management slot for a clutter-free desk.
Dell includes two 9W speakers for your daily productivity work, such as video editing. They aren’t the best speakers to rely on but can get the job done.
Display
Dell UltraSharp U3818DW features a 37.5-inch edge-to-edge display with a 3840 x 1600 resolution. It runs on an IPS panel providing wide viewing angles and vibrant colors. With 111 PPI, you can rely on this ultrawide monitor for all your productivity tasks, including text-based work such as coding.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
This monitor features a handy split-screen software, Dell Easy Arrange, that allows you to partition the display into multiple windows to fit more applications for improved multitasking. With features such as Picture-by-Picture (PbP) and Picture-in-Picture, you can view content from two PC sources simultaneously.
There is a built-in KVM switch for managing different PCs, such as your MBP and Mac Pro, using a single keyboard and mouse.
Connectivity
Dell UltraSharp U3818DW has multiple ports, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and a USB-C port with DP 1.2, data, and up to 100W laptop charging. Connect and charge your MacBook Pro from a single source, reducing cable clutter for a clean workspace.
- 2 x HDMI 2.0
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 1 x USB Type-C
- 2 x USB 3.0 Upstream
- 2 x USB 3.0 Downstream
- 1 x Headphone Output
Dell UltraSharp U3818DW is an excellent ultrawide monitor for the MacBook Pro. With a sharp display, exceptional color accuracy, and competitive pricing, few ultrawides can match its professional-grade performance. The 100W power delivery can charge all MacBook Pro models, so you only have to focus on productivity. It has several multitasking tools for a streamlined workflow, making it the best accessory for your Mac.
- 100W power delivery
- Split-screen and KVM feature available
- Sharp and vibrant display
- Good color accuracy
- Cable management
- Multiple ports
- Mediocre contrast ratio
2. Samsung CJ890 – Best 43-inch Ultrawide Monitor for MacBook Pro
Ultrawide monitors come in different sizes. Samsung CJ890 is the best 43-inch ultrawide monitor for MacBook Pro. It is an excellent monitor that also tops our list of the best 43-inch ultrawide monitors.
The monitor comes with a 1800R curved design that ensures eye comfort and comfortable viewing experience. It has incredibly thin bezels and a wide 32:10 contrast ratio that mirrors two 24-inch 16:10 monitors side-by-side.
Unlike other ultrawide monitors with 21:9 and 32:9 aspect ratios, Samsung CJ890 offers more vertical space, which is ideal for working with longer documents or browsing the web.Onboard you get a fully ergonomic stand supporting tilt, swivel, and height adjustment for comfortable viewing. A VESA mounting plate at the back offers more mounting options. However, make sure to use a mounting arm that supports over 22.49 lbs.
Samsung CJ890 has 5-watt stereo speakers that offer average sound quality for daily tasks. They will no way going to thrill you or provide the best audio. You’ll need external speakers for that.
Display
The monitor comes with a 43.4-inch curved screen with a 3840 x 1200 resolution and 32:10 aspect ratio. It provides more vertical space than other ultrawide monitors, giving you more space for your spreadsheets and image editing applications. Samsung CJ890 has a lower 92.7PPI but does not look pixelated.
Samsung CJ890 isn’t just a productivity ultrawide monitor. With a 120Hz refresh rate, enjoy immersive gameplay on a bigger screen, but you’ll have to make do with the 5ms response time.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
The monitor has a built-in KVM switch for managing two PC sources using the same keyboard and mouse. You can split the screen up to six windows for even better multitasking using the Easy Settings Box software. Resize the windows to your preference and place your different projects and apps.
Connectivity
Samsung CJ890 comes with two USB-C ports and extra multiple inputs, including DP, HDMI, and USB. The USB Type-C supports data, video, and power with 95W charging.
- 2 x USB-C
- 1 x USB-C Upstream
- 1 x HDMI
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 1 x USB 2.0
- 1 x USB 3.0
- 1 x Headphone Output
Samsung CJ890 is an excellent 43-inch ultrawide monitor for MacBook Pro. While it may not have a wide color gamut, it has a nice panel and massive screen real estate for productivity and gaming. Onboard you get all the tools for multitasking and USB-C ports or connecting the MBP. Overall, this is a perfect monitor for those looking to replace their dual monitor setups.
- Two USB-C ports with 95W host charging
- Narrow bezels
- Fully ergonomic stand
- Built-in KVM switch and split-screen software
- Poorly designed buttons
3. Philips 346B1C – Best Value Ultrawide Monitor for Mac
Philips 346B1C is a 34-inch ultrawide monitor that provides the best bang for your bucks. It has all the specs you need in an ultrawide monitor with a sharp display all for under 500.
The monitor comes with a simple design featuring an ergonomic stand and a 1500R curved screen, which offers an immersive panoramic display. The stand supports tilt, swivel, and height adjustment for personalized viewing experience. Onboard you also get built-in speakers and a cable management feature.
Display
Philips 346B1C features a 34-inch curved screen with a 21:9 aspect ratio and a 3440 x 1440 resolution. It’s a sharp display with 110 PPI and 178/178 degree viewing angles. While it runs on a VA panel, the colors are impressive, with 100 percent NTSC and 119 percent sRGB.
The crisp display makes it a winning choice for programmers, while professional creatives will appreciate the impressive color accuracy. You can also fire some games, thanks to the 100Hz refresh rate.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
Like most ultrawide monitors, Philips 346B1C comes with a screen splitting software, MultiView, that allows you to manage multiple windows and PC sources efficiently, such as the MacBook Pro and Mac Pro. The integrated MultiClient KVM switch lets you control the two PCs using a single keyboard and mouse.
Connectivity
Onboard there are multiple signal inputs, including DP 1.2, HDMI, and USB-C port, that delivers up to 90W power enough for charging the MacBook Pro.
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 1 x HDMI 2.0
- 1 x USB-C
- 1 x USB Upstream
- 4 x USB 3.2 Downstream
With a sharp, vibrant ultrawide display and integrated KVM switch, the Philips 346B1C provides the best value for the money. It has only a few caveats such as the poor-quality speakers, but overall, it’s the best value ultrawide monitor for MacBook Pro. If you’re just looking for an ultrawide productivity monitor with no additional features such as wide color gamut and excellent sound, the Philips 346B1C fits the bill.
- Great value
- Included split-screen software and KVM switch
- Vibrant, crisp display
- 90W charging over USB-C
- Flicker-free display
- Poor speakers
4. LG 49WL95C-W – Best Super Ultrawide Monitor for MacBook Pro
If you’re looking for the best ultrawide experience, try a 49-inch monitor. LG 49WL95C-W features a massive and incredibly sharp display, support for HDR, and a wide color gamut. It is the best 49-inch super ultrawide monitor for the MacBook Pro.
There are several 49-inch ultrawide monitors in the market. We reviewed most of them in this roundup of the best 49-inch super ultrawide monitors, but the LG 49WL95C-W stands out as the best option for your MacBook.
The monitor comes with a large curved display with narrow bezels that replicates two 27-inch monitors placed side-by-side. It has a sturdy stand that supports the 27.8 lbs weight without wobbling. And with tilt, swivel, and height adjustment, you can set the display to your comfortable viewing position.
LG 49WL95C-W comes with built-in 10W stereo speakers that deliver powerful sound, especially in a small room. You can get rich sound with bass for daily use and editing videos.
Display
The monitor provides plenty of screen real estate with its 49-inch display running 5120 X 1440 resolution for sharp and crisper visuals. It has 108.54 PPI, which ensures detailed images and crisp text, perfect for coding and editing work.
Talking of colors, LG 49WL95C-W covers 99 percent sRGB and is capable of displaying 1.07 billion colors. Thanks to the IPS panel, you get consistent color quality across the screen with excellent viewing angles. However, you won’t get the best gaming performance with only 60Hz and 5ms response time.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
Multitask with ease thanks to the LG’s Screen Split software, which allows you to divide the 49-inch display to fit more applications and connect multi-devices. The built-in KVM switch, Dual Controller 2.0, lets you control your MacBook Pro and other devices connected to the monitor using one keyboard and mouse.
Connectivity
For hassles free connectivity to your Mac, the monitor has a USB Type-C port for display, data, and laptop charging with 85W power delivery. It has sufficient power output that allows you to charge and use the MacBook at the same time.
- 1 x USB-C
- 2 x HDMI
- 1 x DisplayPort
- 2 x USB 3.0
LG 49WL95C-W should be your go-to ultrawide monitor for productivity. It has massive screen space to fit more apps and sharp display for its size. The support for HDR is an excellent addition for enthusiasts and professional creatives. With a full USB-C port and great multitasking tools, LG 49WL95C-W remains the best super ultrawide monitor for MacBook users looking to expand their workspace.
- Sharp display with HDR
- 85W power delivery over USB-C
- Split-screen software and integrated KVM switch
- Full ergonomic stand
- Great sound quality
- Bulky and heavy
5. Samsung CJ791 – Best Choice for Photo and Video Editing
Samsung CJ791 brings wide color gamut and Thunderbolt 3 to an ultrawide monitor. Enjoy the best of Thunderbolt 3 and crisper colors to edit high-resolution 4K and 8K videos with the latest MacBook Pro 16.
With many ultrawide monitors geared towards daily productivity tasks, such as coding and manipulating large spreadsheets and finance applications, Samsung CJ791 targets color-critical work. It is the best ultrawide monitor for professional photo and video editing.
The monitor looks beautiful and classy with its glossy-white panel, which meets the MacBooks premium look. It has narrow three-sided bezels and a 1500R curved screen for immersion and eye comfort. The stand is fully adjustable for more ergonomics and personalized viewing experience.
Onboard there are essential 7-watt stereo speakers that come handy when gaming and viewing videos. Connecting external speakers is the best option if you want high-quality audio.
Display
Samsung CJ791 has the best image quality compared to other ultrawide monitors. It has a 3440 x 1440 resolution and 109.68 PPI, which results in sharper visuals across the 34-inch screen. The monitor runs on a VA panel providing good contrasts and accurate colors for creatives.
The monitor covers 125 percent of sRGB color gamut and 95 percent DCI-P3, displaying 1.07 billion colors. See your ideas and images in their true colors and create what you’ve always envisioned.
In addition to photo editing, the monitor performs well in gaming with 100Hz refresh rate and support for AMD FreeSync, which reduces screen tearing for smooth and fluid gameplay. When not creating, you can enjoy a flawless gaming experience.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
Samsung CJ791 supports the PbP function via the Easy Setting Box software, which allows you to display two PC sources side by side. However, it does not come with an integrated KVM switch.
Connectivity
Connect your MacBook easily via Thunderbolt 3 port to enjoy 40Gbps transfer speeds, video, and up to 85W charging power. The additional Thunderbolt 3 port allows daisy-chaining of a second monitor or up to six Thunderbolt 3 devices. For instance, you can connect a Thunderbolt 3 external SSD via the second port to transfer large 4K footage within seconds.
- 2 x Thunderbolt 3
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 1 x HDMI 2.0
- 3 x USB 2.0 Downstream
- 1 x USB 2.0 Upstream
- 1 x Headphone Output
Samsung CJ791 is an excellent photo editing ultrawide monitor for MacBook Pro. It has exceptional and vibrant colors that allow you to produce color-accurate images and videos. The addition of Thunderbolt 3 is an excellent feature for creating a nice workflow with other TB3 devices like the MacBooks and Mac Pro. Samsung CJ791 is an excellent ultrawide monitor that also costs less than the other premium options.
- High color accuracy
- Dual Thunderbolt 3 ports with 85W charging
- Classy, premium design
- Split-screen software
- Sharp display
- No KVM switch
6. Samsung Business CH890 Series – Best Ultrawide Monitor for Productivity
Transform your office workspace with a 34-inch ultrawide monitor to add more screen real estate for your productivity apps. Samsung CH890 is a specially designed business monitor to provide you with all the tools to streamline your workflow and boost productivity.
The monitor features a clean design with thin three-sided bezels and a black finish. The unique Y-shaped stand holds the 23.89 lbs weight without wobbling while providing good ergonomics with tilt, swivel, and height adjustments. With a 1800R curved screen, you don’t have to move eyes repeatedly to access all content on the screen, reducing fatigue.
This ultrawide monitor does not have built-in speakers.
Display
Samsung CH890 is another ultrawide with a 109 PPI sharp display. The monitor runs 3440 x 1440 content on a VA panel, which ensures vibrant colors with excellent contrast ratio. It’s a perfect display for daily office tasks but may not be the best option for color-critical work.
With 100Hz and 4ms response time, the gaming performance is impressive, considering it’s not a gaming monitor. However, it supports AMD FreeSync to give you smooth gaming experience with no tearing.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
Like most Samsung ultrawide monitors, CH890 features the Easy Setting Box software that provides screen splitting tools for smooth multitasking. You can view content from two PCs side-by-side and resize the windows to fit your workflow. One of the downsides is the missing KVM switch.
Connectivity
The ports in the Samsung CH890 include HDMI, DisplayPort, USB legacy ports, and a Type-C for connecting your MBP. However, the USB-C port has a 65W low power rating. It will still charge your MacBook Pro but slower than the original adapter.
- 1 x USB-C
- 1 x HDMI
- 1 x DisplayPort
- 2 x USB 3.0
Samsung CH890 is a simple ultrawide monitor for MacBook Pro. It has a clean design perfect for office and business environments. The vibrant and sharp display is suitable for reading documents, spreadsheets, and coding, where text clarity is critical. It’s the best accessory for your MacBook Pro to expand your workspace.
- Vibrant, crisp display
- USB-C with 65W power delivery
- Fully ergonomic stand
- Slow MacBook charging
7. LG 38WK95C-W – LG Ultrawide Monitor for MacBook
When thinks of a monitor for MacBook Pro, the LG UltraFine is one of the first options that come to mind. The LG 38WK95C-W is an excellent alternative to the UltraFine display with more screen real estate in a 21:9 aspect ratio.
The LG 38WK95C-W comes with a classy and premium design to match the MacBook Pro’s aesthetics. It’s a 38-inch curved display with a silver finish and black bezels. It’s one of the best designed ultrawide monitors that presents a sleek, consistent look for your Mac ecosystem.
The monitor comes with a fully-ergonomic stand that can tilt, swivel, and height-adjust for a comfortable viewing experience. However, the LG 38WK95C-W does not have inbuilt speakers.
Display
The display of the LG 38WK95C-W is 38 inches WQHD+ (3840 x 1600) running on an IPS panel. It has a 21:9 ultrawide aspect ratio and 110.93 pixels per inch, providing sharp and crisper text. It has excellent viewing angles and consistent picture quality thanks to the IPS panel and curved design.
LG 38WK95C-W is a great ultrawide monitor for editing with a 99 percent coverage of the sRGB color space. You can create color-accurate content for the web, which is a great solution for professional creatives. It supports HDR10, allowing you to work with realistic color saturation levels and brightness for natural-looking images.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
The monitor supports screen splitting via the On-Screen Control software. You can divide the screen up to four times with different layouts depending on your multitasking setup. However, there is no integrated KVM switch.
Connectivity
LG 38WK95C-W connects to your MacBook Pro via USB Type-C port with 60W power delivery. It can still charge your MacBook but slower than usual.
- 1 x USB-C
- 2 x HDMI 2.0
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 2 x USB 3.0 Downstream
- 1 x Headphone Out
LG 38WK95C-W is another premium ultrawide monitor designed to meet the aesthetics of the MacBook. It has a sharp display with crisper colors excellent for content creation, productivity, and multimedia. It brings more screen real estate to extend your MacBook’s display for better multitasking. LG 38WK95C-W is an excellent ultrawide monitor for the MacBook Pro and the best alternative to the LG Ultrafine display.
- Accurate, crisper colors with HDR
- Sharp display
- Elegant build design
- Adjustable stand
- Low power delivery
- No built-in speakers
8. ViewSonic VP3481 – Best Budget Ultrawide Monitor
ViewSonic VP3481 is a feature-rich ultrawide monitor for photo and video editing on a budget. Co-developed with X-rite color management experts, the monitor provides comes with the best color accuracy out of the box and supports hardware calibration.
The monitor has an impressive thin three-sided bezel and a curved screen. It may not have the best design like the Samsung or LG monitors, but it provides a panoramic view and ergonomic stand for comfortable viewing and reduced eye fatigue.
However, you will require more desk space to accommodate the large and bulky stand. The monitor has a 100x100mm VESA plate for extra mounting options with compatible VESA arms. Onboard there are built-in 5W dual speakers for media and video editing.
Display
ViewSonic VP3481 features a 34-inch ultrawide display with a 3440 x 1440 resolution and VA panel. The monitor combines the VA panel’s high contrast ratio and HDR10 to deliver striking visuals with enhanced color and realistic images.
The monitor covers 100 percent sRGB, perfect for creatives producing content for the web. ViewSonic Colorbration Kit, sold separately, is an excellent hardware calibration tool to tune the display to the best color settings for your projects.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
ViewSonic VP3481 comes with ViewSplit software for partition the screen to display multiple windows and applications. Choose from pre-defined templates and layouts for multitasking or view content from two PC sources. The monitor also features an integrated KVM switch for controlling two devices with a single keyboard and mouse.
Connectivity
Onboard there are plenty of inputs, including USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort. The only downside is the 60W power delivery over USB-C, which isn’t enough for the 87W MacBook.
- 1 x USB-C
- 2 x HDMI 2.0
- 1 x DisplayPort
- 2 x USB 3.1 Upstream
- 1 x USB 3.1 Downstream
ViewSonic VP3481 is a color-accurate ultrawide monitor excellent for professional photo and video editing. It is an excellent ultrawide for MacBook with USB-C connectivity for both power and video. The monitor has impressive color accuracy and supports hardware calibration for even better color settings. The only downside of this monitor is the low power delivery, but it’s a professional-grade monitor.
- High color accuracy
- Higher contrasts with HDR10
- Sharp and vibrant display
- Ergonomic stand
- Screen split software and KVM switch
- 60W isn’t enough for MacBook Pro
- Bulky and large stand
- No swivel adjustment
9. LG 34UM69G-B – Cheap Ultrawide Monitor MacBook Pro
LG 34UM69G-B is the cheapest ultrawide monitor, but with a few caveats. The monitor features an excellent design with a vibrant display for under 500. It is an excellent productivity and ultrawide gaming monitor for your MacBook Pro if you’re on a budget.
LG 34UM69G-B comes with a robust design like other LG monitors. It has thin bezels and black finish with red accents on the base. The V-shaped stand can tilt, swivel, and height-adjust for a comfortable viewing experience.
The monitor has dual 7-watt built speakers for watching videos, movies, and playing games. They are loud enough, and you may not need external speakers.
Display
LG 34UM69G-B features a 34-inch ultrawide screen with 2560×1080 resolution and IPS panel. It is not the sharpest display at 81.72 PPI, but it has excellent viewing angles. The monitor covers 99 percent of sRGB color space for consistent color performance with media on the web.
With AMD FreeSync and 1ms response time (MPRT), the monitor provides smooth gameplay with no motion blur, even on the fastest scenes. Onboard there are excellent gaming features, including Black Equalizer, which improves visibility on darker areas. However, the monitor maxes at a 75Hz refresh rate.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
Split the screen for multitasking using the On-Screen Control software. The Screen Split 2.0 function lets you divide the screen into more windows to display more apps for an efficient workflow. However, there is no built-in KVM switch for managing multiple PC sources with the same keyboard-mouse.
Connectivity
- 1 x USB-C (DP Alt. Mode)
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 1 x HDMI 1.4
- 1 x Headphone Output
LG 34UM69G-B is a cheap ultrawide monitor perfect for MacBook. The lack of Power Delivery over USB-C and dim display are the only caveats, but the monitor can replace your small MacBooks display. It has gorgeous colors and fast panel for gaming. LG 34UM69G-B is the best cheap ultrawide monitor under 500 for the MacBook.
- Cheap and affordable
- Fast display with FreeSync and 1ms response time
- Solid, ergonomic design
- Screen split software
- No USB-C charging
- Dim display
- No KVM switch
10. BenQ EX3501R – Best for Entertainment
BenQ EX3501R is a 35-inch ultrawide monitor with an excellent all-round performance. The monitor stacks well as a gaming and professional editing monitor. It’s the overall best multimedia ultrawide monitor you need for your MacBook Pro.
The monitor has a clean design with thin bezels, black and silver finish, and an adjustable stand. The stand supports height and tilt adjustment and includes a hole for cable management. However, you need external speakers for media; there are no built-in speakers.
Display
The screen is the best feature of the BenQ EX3501R. It’s a 35-inch curved display with a 3440×1440 resolution and VA panel. It has a sharp 103 PPI and excellent contrast ratio, thanks to the VA panel. The monitor covers 100 percent sRGB color space, perfect for content creation.
The gaming performance on the BenQ EX3501R is impressive. It supports FreeSync with a 100Hz refresh rate for tear-free gaming. Combine the 4ms response time for immersive gamely with no ghosting or smearing. With flicker-free technology and a harmful blue light filter, you can play games and view videos for a longer time without fatigue or vision damage.
Split Screen and KVM Switch
The BenQ EX3501R does not have a screen splitting software nor a KVM switch. However, you can use third-party options such as DisplayFusion.
Connectivity
The monitor comes with multiple inputs, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. However, the USB-C port only supports DP Alt. Mode with no power delivery.
- 1 x USB-C (DP Alt. Mode, Data)
- 2 x HDMI 2.0
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.4
- 2 x USB 3.0 Downstream
- 1 x USB 3.0 Upstream
- 1 x Headphone Output
BenQ EX3501R is an excellent all-rounder ultrawide monitor for MacBook that handles HDR10 content excellently. It performs flawlessly throughout, whether doing editing, gaming, or multimedia. It has a robust design and a vibrant display with gorgeous colors. If you can make do with the lack of USB-C charging, BenQ EX3501R can be the best entertainment monitor for your MacBook.
- Supports HDR
- Sharp, high-contrast image
- FreeSync and 100Hz refresh rate
- Accurate colors
- Robust, ergonomic design
- Contrast ratio still lower than other VA monitors
- No USB-C charging
Things to Consider When Buying an Ultrawide Monitor for Mac
Curved vs. Flat
Ultrawide monitors come in different styles, but most of them are curved. Curved ultrawide monitors provide a more immersive viewing experience and reduced eye fatigue. You don’t have to struggle to see the content on the far angles of the screen. Flat monitors are suitable when sharing the display with one or more users.
Pixels Per Inch (PPI)
Pixels Per Inch (PPI) is the most important, yet ignored factor when choosing ultrawide monitors. PPI depends on the size and resolution of the display, and it affects how clear the contents are on the screen.
You want more pixels as you increase the size of the monitor. QHD resolution is the perfect resolution for most ultrawide monitors. It results in a sharp and crisp display, ideal for office use. Display with massive size and low resolution looks pixelated, making you struggle to read the contents on the screen.
Which Ultrawide Size is Perfect for You?
Ultrawide monitors come in different sizes. The most common sizes are 34 inches, 38-inch, 43-inch, and 49-inches super ultrawide monitors. The ideal ultrawide monitor depends on your needs. 34-inches monitor strikes an excellent balance between productivity and gaming. 43-inch ultrawides have 32:10 aspect ratio, which gives you more vertical space perfect for reading documents, spreadsheets, browsing, and editing.
49-inches super ultrawide monitors are the best for productivity. They have more screen real estate to display as many apps as possible. If you’re a multitasker looking to boost your productivity, getting a 49-inch monitor is the best bet.
Screen Splitting Options
If you’re coming off from a multi-monitor setup or looking for multitasking, ensure to look for a split-screen software or function. Depending on which brand you choose, the screen spit software allows you to connect multiple PC sources and display them side-by-side, like using multiple monitors.
However, if the monitor does not have screen slit software, you can use third-party applications such as DisplayFusion.
VESA Mounting
Ultrawide monitors such as the 49-inches super-ultrawides require a lot of desk space. If you don’t have enough desk space or want a more ergonomic stand, VESA mount arms can be an excellent alternative.
Check the monitor if it has VESA mounting holes. Some ultrawide doesn’t support VESA mounting arms because of their curved design. We have a nice list of the best ultrawide monitor mounts to replace the stock monitor stand.
Ultrawide Monitors for MacBook FAQ
Can a monitor with 60W power delivery charge my MacBook?
.There are different power adapters for Mac notebooks such as 45W, 60W, 85W, 87W, and 96W. If your original adapter is for more than 60W, the monitor can still charge your MacBook but slower than the original charger.
Can a MacBook Pro run a 49 inches ultrawide monitor?
Most mac notebooks can run a 49-inches ultrawide monitor without issues. If you face any problems, try using a USB-C to DisplayPort cable.
Can you game on an ultrawide monitor?
You can run most games comfortably on an ultrawide monitor. However, the games must support ultrawide aspect ratios, such as 21:9 or 32:9. For games that do not support the ultrawide aspect ratio, the images will be stretched to fit the screen, or you’ll see black bars on the edges.
Also, keep in mind that you require a powerful GPU to push the many pixels of ultrawide monitors. Using weaker GPUs on a 38-inch or 49-inch ultrawide may affect your in-game performance.
Does Split Screen work on macOS?
Yes, use macOS built-in feature or the ultrawide monitor’s Split Screen software to divide the display into virtual screens for smooth multitasking.