The Mac mini is one of the best mini PCs on the market today. Think of the kind of performance you can expect from a full desktop PC, but in, well, mini form. Perfect for designers and video editors, the only thing the Mac mini is missing is one of the best monitors.
TL;DR – These are the Best Mac mini Monitors:
- Pro Display XDR
- Dell UltraSharp 32 6K Monitor - U3224KB
- Studio Display
- Asus ProArt PA279CV
- Samsung M8 Series
The best monitors for Mac mini come in every shape and size, but we’ve whittled down the options so you get the best of the best. Whether you’re looking for a budget monitor that’s easy on the eyes and wallet, or a stunning display that pushes boundaries, there’s something for everyone.
The M2 Mac mini supports up to two displays, one at 6K resolution at 60Hz over Thunderbolt, and one at 5K resolution at 60Hz over Thunderbolt. Alternatively, you can use HDMI to achieve 4K resolution at 60HZ. If you opt for the M2 Pro, however, there’s support for up to three displays with a wealth of output options.
The Best Monitors for Mac mini
1. Pro Display XDR
Best Monitor for Mac mini
Pros:
- Incredible color accuracy
- Stunning build and design
Cons:
- Expensive stand
The Apple Pro Display XDR is an indulgent purchase that you won’t regret. While it’s a mammoth monitor compared to the comparatively tiny Mac Mini, it offers a huge canvas for any project you’re working on.
It boasts 1,600 nits peak brightness, 106.7% sRGB, and measures 28.3 x 16.2 x 1.1 inches minus the stand (which you can purchase for an additional $999). You also have the option between standard and nano-texture glass, and the VESA mount adapter. Of course, these come at a premium.
But if you want the best monitor for your Mac Mini, it’s hard to deny the beauty, style, and performance of the Pro Display XDR. It’s absolutely stunning, but does come with a somewhat limited range of ports for the price.
2. Dell UltraSharp 32 6K Monitor - U3224KB
Best Pro Display XDR Alternative
Pros:
- 6K resolution
- Wealth of connectivity
Cons:
- Not the best contrast
At half the price of the Apple Pro Display XDR, the Dell UltraSharp 32 U3224KB 6K Monitor is a worthy alternative that’s easier on the wallet. Boasting a stunning 6K display and an integrated 4K HDR webcam, this is one of the best monitors for the Mac mini, particularly for productivity users.
There’s also a vast range of ports, including Thunderbolt, HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, USB-C. Even if you don’t use all of these ports with the Mac Mini, think of it as your own personal Thunderbolt/USB hub for other accessories.
If you switch between the Mac Mini and another form of PC, you’ll be pleased to hear that the Dell UltraSharp 32 U3224KB also includes an auto KVM (TK) switch. You can switch to your liking, and even swap input devices on the fly.
3. Apple Studio Display
Best budget official Mac mini monitor
Pros:
- Easy plug-and-play for Mac
- Great color accuracy
Cons:
- Basic stand is limited to tilting only
The Apple Studio Display is another affordable alternative to the Pro Display XDR. It keeps the stylish and sleek design, offers decent image quality, and comes with a tilt-adjustable stand. You do have the option to upgrade to the tilt- and height-adjustable stand, or VESA mount adaptor.
The 5K panel is a great companion for the Mac mini, with eye-popping text, colors, and decent brightness. The viewing angles are another plus point, but the range of ports lacks just as much as the more expensive Pro Display XDR does.
If you want an Apple monitor for your Mac mini, this is certainly a more affordable option, but compared to other similar monitors, you’ll get a lot more for your money elsewhere.
4. Asus ProArt PA279CV
Best Mac mini monitor for creators
Pros:
- Loads of connectivity options
- Wide color gamut
Cons:
- Average contrast and brightness
Mac mini users will love the Asus ProArt PA279CV thanks to its budget-friendly pricing, 4K display, and 100% color accuracy. This is a fantastic monitor for creators who require sharp images and accurate colors, ensuring video and photo editing is achieved to perfection.
With a stylish design and thin bezels, this monitor also won’t take up too much real estate. There’s a handy clip at the back for cable management, and even a built-in ruler across the bottom bezel.
There’s a good amount of ports, too, but not nearly as many as the Dell UltraSharp 32 6K Monitor. Still, you’ll be paying a lot less, and the USB-C with Power Delivery ensures you can use the monitor with your MacBook Pro too.
5. Samsung M8 Series
Best Budget Monitor for Mac mini
Pros:
- 4K resolution
- Feature-rich
Cons:
- Image quality isn’t the best
Affordable, bright and vivid display, and with an adjustable stand, the Samsung M8 Series monitor delivers 32 inches of goodness which can support the Mac mini. Of course, at this price, you are sacrificing a few things, namely ports, panel type, and brightness. You do, however, get a 4K monitor that’s easily adjustable.
Unfortunately there is no Adobe RGB standard support, so it’s not something to invest in if you’re a graphic designer or video editor. But for day-to-day office work, it’s a brilliant monitor. And when you want to take a break, it uses Samsung’s Tizen OS so you can run built-in apps like Netflix, Apple TV+, and more.
Despite there being a lack of ports, the Samsung M8 Series does offer plenty of connectivity options like Bluetooth, support for AirPlay, and Wi-Fi 5.
How we picked the best monitors for Mac mini
Although technically any monitor with an HDMI connection would work with a Mac mini, we picked the best monitors based on a variety of factors. For example, by investing in a monitor like the Pro Display XDR, you get an array of ports including Thunderbolt 3, meaning you can transfer data and connect your Mac mini with a single cable.
Many designers and creatives use the Mac mini, therefore, we considered a range of monitors that offer high-resolution displays, exceptional color accuracy, and a wide color gamut. Peak brightness is also another consideration if you plan to use your Mac mini and compatible monitor in a bright room.
FAQ
Can you use any monitor with a Mac mini?
Yes, pretty much any monitor can work with a Mac mini as long as the relevant ports and adapters are available. The Mac mini is an extremely versatile device, equipped with a USB-C/Thunderbolt port and HDMI 2.0.
Can I use a TV as a Mac mini monitor?
Many TVs also work and can double up as computer displays. Connecting your Mac mini to your TV requires a video cable. You may need an adapter depending on the type of TV you plan to use.
Are Mac minis worth it?
The Mac mini is a more affordable Mac desktop if you want an Apple computer and are trying to keep costs down. It’s plenty powerful, too, and as you’ve seen, can be paired with almost any display.
Kegan is an avid gamer who has been playing games since his Atari days. From a young age Kegan was tinkering with PCs and now has a passion for building custom gaming computers.
