This article looks at a series of excellent curved ultrawide monitors that work as great external options for the MacBook Pro.
I am an avid technology user who has spent years working with both MacBooks and individual monitors. My own experience and personal research gave me the tools I needed to properly understand the different items covered through the below guide.
I believe the Samsung CH890 to be the best external curved ultrawide MacBook Pro monitor because it has a great blend of specs, traits, and features.
The item comes with Eye Saver mode, picture-in-picture functionality, as well as AMD FreeSync. The resolution is incredibly sharp too. Not only does that make it look great, but the various ports and fully adjustable stand ensure there’s a ton of versatility as well.
If you want to learn more about that model or are curious about other excellent designs, check out the items in the following sections.
Contents
Who Should Get This
All of the monitors in this guide are for MacBook Pro users who perform tasks that require a larger screen. Though you can get a lot done on the laptop, video editors, games, or even avid movie watchers will all enjoy being able to work or watch something much bigger.
If you spend a lot of time on your Pro, a large monitor can be a good investment. However, if you don’t have a reason to get an extra screen, or if you travel a lot and need the portability of a laptop, the following options likely aren’t for you.
Best Curved Ultrawide Monitors for MacBook Pro: Top Picks
The curved ultrawide monitors in this section are the best of the best when it comes to finding an external device to connect to a MacBook Pro.
1. Samsung CH890
- Best For: Overall
- Key Features: Eye Saver mode. Picture-in-Picture and split screen mode. Multiple port options. Height adjustment. AMD FreeSync.
- Refresh Rate: 100 Hz
- Screen Size: 34 inches
- Maximum Screen Resolution: 3440 x 1440 pixels
The Samsung CH890 is a great curved option for any MacBook Pro user who values quality. This impressive item, which measures 34 inches, comes with a stunning refresh rate, a range of port options, as well as picture-in-picture functionality. It looks great and is easy to work with.
Those amazing traits then get furthered by the 21:9 aspect ratio and WQHD resolution. Everything comes across sharp and clear. As an added bonus, the stand is height, tilt, and swivel adjustable. That maximized both comfort and general user experience.
This does not come with speakers, which may put some people off, and it’s quite delicate. Be careful when using this one, especially if you have to move or transport it for any reason.
2. LG LED Ultragear WQHD
- Best For: Adjustability
- Key Features: Radeon free sync 2 technology. Quick refresh rate. Fully adjustable stand. Bright, crisp resolution.
- Refresh Rate: 144 Hz
- Screen Size: 34 inches
- Maximum Screen Resolution: 3440 x 1440
The LG Ultragear is a good MacBook Pro monitor because it’s curved, 34-inch display comes with a stunning resolution and excellent 144 Hz refresh rate. Everything you do on the monitor looks incredible, especially if you’re someone who likes to watch movies or TV.
Another great bonus is the stand, which has the ability to swivel, height adjust, and tilt. You’ll always be comfortable when using this. Add on the FreeSync 2, Nano IPS, and wide color gamut and you get a powerful machine with a lot of power.
Some people may be put off by the lack of speakers here, but that’s not a huge deal breaker. Just know you’re likely going to have to upgrade or supplement the audio on your own when getting this monitor.
3. BenQ EX3501R
- Best For: Gaming
- Key Features: Panoramic screen. Brightness Intelligence Plus. Ergonomic design with adjustable stand. Super speed connectivity.
- Refresh Rate: 100 Hz
- Screen Size: 35 inches
- Aspect Ratio: 21:9
Though MacBook Pros aren’t exactly gaming PCs, they can run some titles. If you’re someone who likes to use their Apple product for that purpose, the BenQ EX3501R is a solid external monitor. It has excellent graphics, strong connectivity, and a speedy refresh rate.
On top of that is the slimmed down, ergonomic design, as well as the matte screen. You can adjust the stand (both height and tilt) and AMD FreeSync works wonderfully. This also comes with Brightness Intelligence Plus to save your eyes during long play sessions.
There’s a bit of motion blur with this monitor, and you will see some ghosting when the overdrive is off. If those issues aren’t huge for your purposes, this is a great way to bring a new dimension to your MacBook Pro.
4. Samsung CRG9
- Best For: Screen
- Key Features: Excellent refresh rate. HDR 1000 and Samsung QLED technology. Excellent coloration. Wide connection options.
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Screen Size: 49 inches
- Maximum Screen Resolution: 5120 x 1440 pixels
If you want size, the CRG9 from Samsung is about as big as it gets. Coming in at an incredible 49 inches, the model completely takes over your desk or workspace to make everything you do on your laptop pop. The resolution is incredible, as is the HDR and refresh rate.
This comes with many other standard features, including multiple connection options, FreeSync 2, redacted input latency, and Eye Saver mode. That plethora of traits come together to create an incredibly useful and efficient item you can use for years to come.
If you like what this monitor offers, be aware that it’s one of the more expensive options out there. It’s definitely worth the price if you’re after the best possible specs, but understand you’re paying a lot for the privilege.
5. Philips 346B1C
- Best For: Value
- Key Features: PowerSensor. Pivot adjustment. Wall mountable and included USB Hub. Frameless design. Flicker-free.
- Refresh Rate: 100 Hz
- Screen Size: 34 inches
- Contrast Ratio: 3,000:1
The Philips 346B1C is a rather powerful monitor for its price. Though it doesn’t have every top spec or premium feature, it still delivers a vivid 34-inch screen that’s completely frameless, curved, and adjustable. The stand tilts and the 119 percent sRGB rating looks fantastic.
When it comes to port options, this monitor comes through with 2 HDMI 2.0, a Displayport, and a USB-C. That’s a ton of versatility, which allows you to plug in whatever you need. From there, the built-in KVM switch and flicker-free screen are just icing on the cake.
As this is a more value-oriented device, you do lose some features. The monitor can experience some issues when your connected MacBook goes into sleep mode and the built-in speakers are rather weak. Even so, you still get a lot with this item.
How to Choose a Curved Ultrawide Monitor for MacBook Pro
It’s important to consider the traits in this section when choosing your next curved monitor.
Size
When getting a monitor, you must always first think about the size. There are a ton of different options out there, even when dealing with ultrawide models. You can get something that’s a bit on the smaller side of the scale, or you can go for an absolutely massive display.
While most users assume that bigger means better, that’s not always the case. You need to keep your available space in mind, as well as what you want your viewing angles to be. Go with a size that’s comfortable without being too overbearing.
Resolution
Resolution is another key aspect to think about when getting a new monitor. As with size, it’s easier to assume that you want the best possible specs, but it’s not always that simple. You want to get the best possible specs within your budget. Don’t pay too much here.
Though you likely won’t be able to match the MacBook Pro’s resolution, you can still strive to get something that’s close. High pixel density will give you crisp, clear images. You want a strong coloration too, as that further enhances the monitor’s performance.
Additional Features
When getting an external monitor for your MacBook, don’t be afraid to look for unique or cool features. It’s easy to settle for the first premium option you find, but extra research often pays off in terms of functionality and design.
For instance, a USB hub enhances connectivity, while built-in speakers enable you to get solid sound without spending extra money. Tilt screens that add adjustability or flicker-free options that cut down on eye strain go a long way as well.
Other Useful Tips and Resources
Though some people might be intimidated by the idea of plugging their MacBook Pro into an external monitor, it’s a relatively simple process. You may need to get adjusters or cables, depending on your MacBook model and display, but once that’s over everything is easy.
This official guide from Apple helps everything run smoothly. If that’s not enough, you can also consult this handy video to get a direct view of how everything fits together.
Final Verdict
In my opinion, no curved ultrawide monitor works better for the MacBook Pro than the Samsung CH890. The model comes packed with a ton of useful features and has some of the best resolution around. The display and adjustable stand are fantastic as well.
The entire package looks great and is a large size that never feels too unwieldy. That combination creates one of the best external MacBook Pro monitors in today’s market.
