For a long time, many graphic designers not only had to contend with having a huge monitor on their desks but giant towers that housed their PC. Originally created in 2005, the Mac mini has gone through extensive changes to be a great option for anyone.
With such versatility, we thought it was beyond time to shine a light on the iMac’s little brother and share our list of the best monitors for Mac mini in 2022.
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Before we dive in, let’s take a gander at our choices and how to choose the best monitor for a Mac mini.
The 14 Best Monitors for Mac mini in 2022 – Overview
- Dell UltraSharp U2720Q — The best monitor for Mac mini overall (Editor’s Choice) – 27″
- Asus Zenscreen Portable Monitor — The best budget monitor for Mac mini – 15.6″
- BenQ EX3501R — The best budget ultrawide monitor for Mac mini – 35″
- LG UltraFine 5K — The best value monitor for Mac mini – 27″
- LG UltraFine 4K — The best 4K monitor for Mac mini – 24″
- LG 49WL95C-WE 49in Curved Ultrawide — The best curved monitor for Mac mini – 49″
- BenQ SW321C PhotoVue — The best Mac mini monitor for photographers – 32″
- Dell S2719DC — The best-designed monitor for Mac mini – 27″
- LG 34WK95U-W UltraWide monitor — The best ultrawide monitor for Mac mini – 34″
- ViewSonic VP2458 — The best entry-level display for Mac mini – 23.8″
- MSI Prestige PS341WU — The best 5K monitor for Mac mini – 34″
- ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV — The best video editing monitor for Mac mini – 27″
- Asus Designo MX279Hs — The best stylish monitor for Mac mini – 27″
- ASUS ProArt PA278CV — The best display combination of budget and features for Mac mini – 27″
If you want something more portable, see our feature on the best portable monitors or if you want touch-ability see the best touchscreen monitors.
It’s also wise to invest in a monitor calibrator for the best color accuracy and perhaps a monitor arm to help save on desk space.
Best monitors for Mac mini Compared
How to choose the right monitor for Mac mini
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Size
Working with a Mac mini should be a comfortable experience and a monitor with the correct screen size. Real estate on your desk can be a premium but with the small size that the Mac mini comes with, you can think about going with the largest screen that will fit your desk.
Resolution
As with any monitor you purchase, the starting point that you should consider shouldn’t be anything less than 1080p. While there are higher resolutions available – 4K, 5K, and even 8K, if you are on a budget, you shouldn’t choose anything less than 1080p.
Connectivity
Days of connecting to a monitor using a VGA cable are long gone. These days, the number of connectivity options can run the gamut. However, for a Mac mini, you want to make sure that whatever monitor you choose has HDMI support. If you have a newer Mac mini, you can also use a USB-C port to display video.
Panel Technology
The majority of monitors these days use IPS or In-plane switching technology. Simply put, this means that you don’t have to be seated directly in front of the monitor to see what’s being displayed.
The 14 Best Monitors for Mac mini in 2022
1. Dell UltraSharp U2720Q (Editor’s Choice)
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The best monitor for Mac mini overall
Size: 27 inches | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Connections: DisplayPort, HDMI, 3x USB-A, 1x USB-C downstream, 1x USB-C upstream
There can be a lot of disagreement when it comes to picking just the right monitor, and even more so when you need to hook up a Mac mini. Thankfully, we love finding just the right monitor for you and we think we have just the one. The UltraSHarp U2720Q from Dell is a great monitor for any creative work you need to do.
With a beautiful 4K resolution, the display can make anything you work on from video to graphic design look it’s absolute best. The overall solid build with impressive ergonomic adjustment options doesn’t relay the quality of this 27-inch display. With 99.9% sRGB, 99% REC 709, and 95% P3 color gamut coverage and impressive resolution, it should find a home on any desk.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great 4K resolution | ➖ No Thunderbolt passthrough |
| ➕ Excellent color support |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Experience true color and captivating details on this 27” 4K monitor with a wide color coverage, including 95% DCI-P3
- Single cable USB-C delivers up to 90W of power while transmitting data and video signals.
- Work efficiently with improved Dell Display Manager, a fully adjustable stand and virtually borderless InfinityEdge.
- Visually stunning: Experience outstanding color gradient and precision in more shades on this VESA DisplayHDR 400 monitor with a color depth 1.07 billion colors and high contrast ratio of 1300:1.
2. Asus Zenscreen Portable Monitor
The best budget-friendly monitor for Mac mini
Size: 15.6 inches | Resolution: 1920 X 1080 | Connections: USB-C, micro-HDMI
Saving money is important, especially if you’re at the beginning of your career and need good tech to impress your client. The problem is, many of the higher quality monitors are far more expensive. Enter the Asus Zenscreen.
A great money-saving option, the Zenscreen offers a 15.6-inch screen plus USB-C and micro-HDMI connections, the Zenscreen can function in landscape and portrait mode. At its small size, it’s even a great option for a second screen, adding even more to its versatility.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ The smart cover protects the screen | ➖ Small screen |
| ➕ Blue light filtering built-in | |
| ➕ Works in portrait or landscape modes |
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Latest Price on Amazon:
- 15. 6” FHD Anti-Glare IPS Micro HDMI and USB Type-C portable monitor
- Aspect Ratio is 16:9; Viewing Angle (CR≧10, H/V) is 178°/ 178°; Brightness (Typ) is 220cd/㎡
- Ultra-portable award-winning design at 1. 9 pounds and 0. 3 inches slim to pair perfectly with Asus laptops and zenfones
- Built to be on-the-go with 7800mAh battery and stereo speakers for ultimate compatibility with both laptops and phones. Compatible with Thunderbolt 3. OS Compatibility-Microsoft Windows, Mac OS,...
- Smart Cover and smart pen hole allow for landscape and portrait orientations easily with auto rotation.Brightness(Max) : 220 cd/㎡
3. BenQ EX3501R
The best budget-friendly ultrawide monitor for Mac mini
Size: 35 inches | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Connections: USB-C, HDMI x2, DisplayPort, USB-A x2
While we feature ultrawide monitors regularly, the EX3501R from BenQ is in a class all by itself. With its great price and 35-inch display, you won’t miss the features that pricier ultrawide displays come with.
With color gamut coverage including 100% sRGB and a refresh rate of up to 100Hz, the BenQ display can also be used for gaming. The biggest draw for creatives and gamers alike is the 21:9 aspect ratio. All in all, you can’t find a better budget-friendly display for a Mac mini.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Incredible size for multitasking | ➖ Average brightness |
| ➕ Useful connectivity |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- PANORAMIC SCREEN: Immersive ultra wide 35" curved monitor and 3440x1440 resolution with 1800R curvature, wide viewing angle, 21: 9 aspect ratio, ultra-slim bezel
- PATENTED EYE-CARE FOR EXTENDED PLAY: Brightness Intelligence Plus uses a proprietary sensor to adapt screen brightness and color temperature to your in-room lighting. B. I. plus works with Zero...
- Ergonomic: Height/tilt adjustability
- Super speed connectivity: USB-C one-cable connectivity enables SuperSpeed USB data transfer and 2K video delivery over a single cable, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB 3. 1
- Lightning Fast: 100Hz refresh rate gives you the edge
4. LG UltraFine 5K
The best value monitor for Mac mini
Size: 27 inches | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,880 | Connections: USB, USB Type C, Thunderbolt
The UltraFine 5K display from LG is an incredible piece of technology that is a total workhorse. With a beautiful 27-inch display and 5K resolution, the display comes with a similar P3 wide color gamut and 500 nits of brightness that Apple’s iMac provides.
While the LG display is a great value when compared to the iMac display, the biggest downside of the display is the price. While it’s not a cheap display by any means, it’s still far less expensive than Apple’s Pro Display and a great option for a Mac mini.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Sharp and refined image | ➖ Wobbly at full height |
| ➕ Easy to use | ➖ Pricey |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 27 Inch 5K (5120 x 2880) IPS Display
- DCI-P3 99% Color Gamut / 500nits Brightness
- Thunderbolt 3 Port with up to 94W PD
- 3 USB Type C Ports
- Mac OS Compatibility
5. LG UltraFine 4K
The best 4K monitor for Mac mini
Size: 24 inches | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Connections: 3x USB Type-C, 2x Thunderbolt 3
With a great display, the UltraFine 4K from LG offers a P3 wide color gamut and 500 nits of brightness. While many will point out that LG also makes a 5K version (which we’ll cover), the 4K version is equipped with two Thunderbolt 3 ports and three USB-C ports. If you have accessories such as a Thunderbolt 3 external drive, this can be extremely helpful.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Incredible color accuracy | ➖ Thick bezels |
| ➕ USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 compatibility | ➖ Expensive |
| ➕ Vivid and bright |
Latest Price on Amazon:
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6. LG 49WL95C-WE 49in Curved Ultrawide
The best curved monitor for Mac mini
Size: 49 inch | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Ports: 1 x DisplayPort, 2 x HDMI, 1 x USB-C | Brightness (max): 350 cd/m2
A small device does not have to sacrifice workspace, and the LG 49WL95C-WE has plenty of it. This curved ultrawide monitor is essentially two 2,560 x 1,440 monitors fused side by side into one super-screen. It provides plenty of screen space for multitasking users.
If you typically use a dual-display setup, you will appreciate this monitor, especially if you want a more minimalist desk setup. Despite its massive size, it may actually save you space because it will only take a foot space of one screen rather than two.
If you want to upgrade from Ultra HD resolution you will appreciate the 5K resolution of the monitor. With this resolution, you’ll get sharper and more detailed visuals. Meanwhile, its adjustable stand with height, tilt, and swivel adjustments will come in handy for almost everyone.
As will its light sensor and True Tone feature, which will automatically adjust screen brightness and temperature based on ambient light. This isn’t a cheap monitor, but if you need next-level viewing for your Mac mini, the price is well worth it.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Good color accuracy | ➖ Pricy |
| ➕ Great speakers | |
| ➕ Can handle HDR content |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 49 inches ultrawide 32: 9 dual QHD (5120 X 1440) Display
- USB type C connectivity
- SRGB 99 percent color gamut
- HDR 10 support
- 2 x 10W stereo speaker with Rich Bass
7. BenQ SW321C PhotoVue
The best Mac mini monitor for photographers
Size: 32-inch | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Connections: DisplayPort 1.4, 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x USB Type-C, 2x USB Type-A
If you’re a photographer using a Mac mini, say hello to your new best friend. The SW321C from BenQ is great for a lot of reasons, including its 32-inch, 4K screen that provides ample amounts of color support for all of your best shots.
Calibrating the display is easy as well. You can adjust the color profiles on the monitor itself, without worrying about messing with the settings of the Mac mini.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Large 4K display | ➖ Brightness could be better |
| ➕ Hardware calibrated accuracy | ➖ Connection area difficult to reach |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- AQCOLOR TECHNOLOGY 99% Adobe RGB coverage uniformity technology and hardware calibration support for accurate color performance
- 32 INCH 16 9 4K RESOLUTION
- HARDWARE CALIBRAITON WITH PALETTER MASTER ELEMENT SOFTWARE
- HDR
- PAPER COLOR SYNC FOR SCREEN-TO-PRINT COLOR MATCHING
8. Dell S2719DC
The best Mac mini monitor design
Size: 27-inch | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Connections: HDMI, USB, USB 3.0 x2
There is a whole range of choices to pick from when it comes to buying a Dell monitor for your Mac mini. The S2719DC stands out from the pack with its incredible 27-inch screen that features Dell HDR.
With built-in HDMI and USB ports, connecting your peripherals is no problem at all. All this and a great 2,560 x 1,440 resolution that can make all of your work look beautiful.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great ergonomics | ➖ Unable to produce deep, uniform blacks |
| ➕ Incredible accuracy | ➖ Gaming features are limited |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Modern, elegant design with a subtle textured pattern at the back of the monitor has its own unique look.
- Every image comes to life on this 27” screen with three-sided ultrathin bezel design. With QHD (2560x1440) resolution, you’ll get 1.77 times more details than Full HD.
- Smooth, tear-free experience with AMD FreeSync technology, featuring up to 75Hz refresh rate
- 27” lifestyle-inspired QHD monitors with outstanding visuals for an amazing entertainment experience.
9. LG 34WK95U-W UltraWide monitor
The best ultrawide monitor for Mac mini
Size: 34-inch | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,160 | Connections: USB-C/Thunderbolt 3, DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB-C
As any designer will tell you, having enough room on your monitor is a constant battle. The 34WK95U from LG, with its 5K resolution, offers anyone great image quality and a beautiful design.
With a response time of 5ms and a refresh rate of 60Hz, the display can handle anything you do on it. Thunderbolt 3, DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB-C ports make compatibility and connectivity easy so you can focus on your work.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Wide color gamut | ➖ Pricey |
| ➕ Ergonomic design | ➖ Low contrast ratio |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 5120 x 2160 Resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, 5 ms (GtG) Response Time, Thunderbolt 3 / HDMI / DisplayPort 1.4 / USB Type C Inputs, Built-In Speakers, Ultra-thin bezel for slim and sleek design
- 1200:1 (Typ) Contrast Ratio, 450 cd/m2 Brightness, 178 degree/178 degree Viewing Angles (CR≥10), 10-Bit (8bit+A-FRC), DCI-P3 98% Color Gamut (CIE1931), 0.0518 (H) x 0.1554 (V) mm Pixel Pitch
- Windows: Plug and play for PCs with compatible graphics cards supporting 5K2K such as the 2080ti for gamers. Use DisplayPort 1.4 or Thunderbolt 3 USB-C for full 5120 x 2160 resolution
- Apple: Plug and play with thunderbolt 3 with 2016 and 2017 models. 2018 MacBooks may require an update to the recent Mac OS X 10.14.2 Beta for thunderbolt to work
- 1 Year Parts and Labor from LG. A DisplayPort cable, USB-B to USB-A cable, and a 2-meter-long Thunderbolt 3 / USB-C cable are included
10. ViewSonic VP2458
The best entry-level display for Mac mini
Size: 23.8 inches | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Connections: DisplayPort, HDMI, VGA, USB-A x2, USB-B
Boasting a 100% sRGB color gamut, the VP2458 from Viewsonic is a great entry-level that while it doesn’t have the features of other displays, namely a wider color gamut, higher brightness, and better resolution, it can still be a great display for your Mac mini.
Also a great option for smaller desks, the VP2458 provides incredible accuracy while being under 27-inches. Ergonomically, the display provides a great range of adjustments with controls for height, tilt, pivot, and swivel controls so you can get it in just the right position.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great color support | ➖ FullHD resolution |
| ➕ Full ergonomic adjustments |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- PROFESSIONAL MONITOR: Full HD (1920x1080p) 60Hz IPS monitor with four sided framelss bezels for home and office settings
- ULTIMATE COLOR ACCURACY: Screen wide 100% sRGB color coverage and Delta E<2 color accuracy deliver precise, lifelike images
- PRODUCTIVITY & COMFORT: Advanced ergonomics, and flicker-free technology with blue light filter help boost productivity for all-day comfort
- FLEXIBLE CONNECTIVITY: The VP2458 supports laptops, PCs, and Apple/Mac operating systems with HDMI 1.4, USB 3.1, DisplayPort and VGA inputs
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: LCD Monitor, Power Cable, DP to DP Cable, USB 3.1 Upstream Cable, and Factory Color Calibration Report
11. MSI Prestige PS341WU
The best 5K monitor for Mac mini
Size: 34 inches | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,160 | Connections: DisplayPort, 2x HDMI, 1x USB-C, 3x USB Type A
Known for its gaming products, MSI has been making more and more inroads into the creative space. The Prestige PS341WU offers 98% DCI-P3 color support is creatives will love and the brightness is higher than the average monitor. If you have gear that can take advantage of HDR600, the display offers support for that as well.
The 5K resolution is stretched out to its ultrawide size and with its 21:9 aspect ratio, effectively provides you with a 4K display that gives you more working space for all of your projects.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Bright with strong color support | ➖ Might be too big for some desks |
| ➕ Ultrawide 4K resolution |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 34-Inch ultra-wide Professional wuhd (5120 x 2160/ 21: 9) designed for creators & multitasking
- Nano-ips panel for a truly premium quality picture
- 98% of DCI-P3 color gamut with a pre-calibrated in factory for the most excellent color accuracy
- 34” ultra-wide wuhd Display for truly expressive details
- Built-in picture-in-picture (PIP) and Picture-by-Picture (PBP) help to check the content from multiple sources simultaneously and switch between them easily
12. ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV
Best for photo and video editing
Panel Size (inch) : 27 | Aspect Ratio : 16:9 | Display Viewing Area (H x V) : 596.74 x 335.66 mm | Ports: USB-C x 1, DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI(v2.0) x 2, USB Hub : 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
Users of the Mac Mini will have a dependable workhorse in the form of the ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV. The graphics are stunning and video and photo editing will be a breeze.
This 4K monitor replaces the PA278CV, which was a QHD monitor. It provides a sharp image and accurate colors for content creators due to its perfect coverage of the sRGB color space.
In comparison to the PA278CV, it has twelve preset modes, making it an excellent choice for photo editors who use a Mac Mini. Also, it has thin bezels and a simple design, as well as a metallic finish plastic stand and a cable management clip on the back.
Its power and OSD buttons are located at the bottom of the device, where it also has a built-in ruler to help content creators and photo editors. It provides vibrant colors with 100% sRGB color accuracy, which is excellent for most work purposes. And to top it all off, this monitor comes with impressive 178-degree viewing angles thanks to its matte anti-reflective coating.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Accurate image | ➖ Design is not impressive |
| ➕ High brightness | |
| ➕ USB-C with 65 watts power delivery |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 27-inch 4K HDR UHD (3840 x 2160) LED backlight display with IPS 178° wide viewing angle panel
- Aspect Ratio is 16:9; Viewing Angle (CR≧10) is 178°/ 178°; Brightness (Typ) is 350cd/㎡
- International color standard 100% sRGB and 100% Rec. 709 wide color gamut
- Calman Verified with factory calibrated for excellent Delta E < 2 color accuracy
- Extensive connectivity including DisplayPort over USB-C with 65W Power Delivery, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 3.1 hub
13. Asus Designo MX279Hs
The best stylish monitor for Mac mini
Size: 27 inches | Resolution: 1920 x 1080| Connections: Dual HDMI, D-sub (VGA)
With its frameless design, the Designo MX279Hs is a wonderful-looking display that will look great in any office. The design isn’t all the Designo offers though with its 27-inch display and extra-wide 178-degree viewing angle, the monitor is a great choice for collaborators.
The display also includes virtual scaling as well as blue light filtering for those late-night work sessions. With a brightness of 250 nits and built-in speakers, you can catch up on the latest episode of your favorite shows while taking a break.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Touch-sensitive controls | ➖ Limited connectivity |
| ➕ Good build and design |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 27” Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS monitor with a wide 178° viewing angle featuring dual HDMI and VGA
- Stereo 3W speakers co-developed by Asus SonicMaster technology provide rich, spacious sound while eliminating the need for external speakers
- Award-winning frameless design and sundial-inspired base with a metallic, icicle gold finish
- Asus Eye Care technology with TUV Rhineland-certified flicker-free backlighting and blue light filter minimizes eye fatigue
- Asus Rapid replacement 3 Years warranty with 2 way free SHIPPING
14. ASUS ProArt PA278CV
The best display combination of budget and features for Mac mini
Size: 27 inches | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Connections: 1x USB-C, 2x DisplayPort 1.2, 1x HDMI, USB hub, earphone jack
When you first bring up the ProArt PA278CV from Asus, you might think that there is a typo on the price considering the features that it provides – 100% sRGB and 100% REC 709 support, a 75Hz refresh rate, anti-light blue technology, as well as Calman Verified for accuracy, you might think that the price is missing a digit or two.
FOr the cost of an Apple iMac, you could get a Mac mini with some but not all of the features that the ProArt PA278CV provides. With the display’s daisy-chain feature, you can use the DisplayPort to connect two screens, giving you even more real estate. When it comes to graphic design, the more space the better.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great color support | ➖ Brightness could be better |
| ➕ Amazing connectivity |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 27-inch WQHD (2560 x 1440) IPS monitor with frameless design
- International color standard 100% sRGB and 100% Rec. 709 wide color gamut
- Calman Verified with factory calibration for excellent Delta E less than 2 color accuracy
- ASUS-exclusive ProArt Preset and ProArt Palette provide numerous adjustable color parameters
- Extensive connectivity for maximum flexibility, including Mini DisplayPort, DisplayPort, HDMI, dual-link DVI-D, audio in and earphone jack, plus four USB 3.0 ports
Frequently Asked Questions
What monitor works best with Mac Mini?
Dell UltraSharp U2720Q works best with Mac Mini. The combination of 4K resolution and broad color support at a pretty reasonable price makes it a great choice. The brightness and color accuracy are pitch-perfect, and the monitor offers good height and has a solid build as well.
Does Mac Mini M1 support 144Hz?
Yes, Mac Mini M1 can run at a full resolution of 3840 x 1600 at 144 Hz, using a Thunderbolt cable or USB-C to DisplayPort cable.
How many screens can a Mac Mini support?
Mac Mini can support one 5K display, using a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port, or up to three 4K displays, using 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports and 1 HDMI 2.0 port.
Does Mac Mini have an Ethernet port?
Yes, Mac Mini has a gigabit ethernet port for connecting to a wired network. Also, a 10-gigabit ethernet option is available at an extra charge.
Is it possible to connect TV screen to Mac Mini?
Yes, you can connect TV screen to Mac Mini. All you need to do is purchase a mini displayport-to-VGA adapter. This allows you to connect your Mac mini to a monitor, LCD, and projector.
The 14 Best Monitors for Mac mini in 2022
The Mac mini from Apple is a great piece of hardware that any creative can use in their daily work. Finding a monitor that takes advantage of all that tech can be a struggle and we hope our list of The 14 Best Monitors for Mac mini in 2022 can help make that a much easier process.
More Best Monitor Compilations
We’ve compiled several different monitor guides specific to your requirements.
- 15 Best Monitors for Graphic Design
- 15 Best Monitor Calibrators
- 10 Best 5K and 8K Monitors
- Top 10 Best Budget Monitors for Graphic Design
- Top 15 Best Monitors for Photo Editing
- 15 Best Monitors for Programming & Coding
- 10 Best Touch Screen Monitors
- 10 Best USB-C Monitors
- 10 Best Macbook Pro Monitors
- 15 Best Curved Monitors
- 15 Best Monitors for Editing Video
- 10 Best Monitors for Gaming
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