4K or 5K monitor for Mac Mini Apple M4 Pro - Video & Photo Editing

I got an LG 27" 5k monitor for <$1000 which has the same picture as the Apple Studio Display. The case is not as nice but saved over $500.00.

I was considering buying the LG UltraFine 27MD5KLB-B 27" which I think is the monitor you are referring to. Reading multiple reviews (on LG's own website & several others) that describe the thunderbolt port as being poorly constructed (pins connecting it to the motherboard break loose), I am wondering if I should bite the bullet & buy the Apple Studio Display.

There appear to be five 27" 5K (5120x2880) pixel displays on the market, or about to come on the market.

• Apple Studio Display (2022)
• Asus ProArt PA27JCV
• BenQ PD2730S
• LG 27MD5KL-B
• Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K IPS Smart Monitor

The Asus one seems to connect via USB-C, DIsplayPort v1.4, or HDMI v2.1 – but not by Thunderbolt. Possibly this implies that only Macs with HDMI v2.1 ports that support 8K displays, or Macs with Thunderbolt 5 ports (that have support for DisplayPort 2.1) would be able to drive it at 5K resolution.

The others connect via Thunderbolt and might be more broadly compatible with Macs that have support for driving 5K monitors over Thunderbolt.

Based on the fact that I would not be connecting & disconnecting a computer to the Thunderbolt port, and your reassuring words, I purchased the LG monitor, with an extended warranty (SquareTrade).

I have been using the monitor for the past 6-weeks and am happy with my purchase.

It happens I have both LG 5K and Studio Display (nano texture).

There are plenty of videos compared to both 2.

For my person preference:

Color: I prefer LG more then somewhat yellow tinted Studio Display; then I disabled the "true tone" on Studio Display --> I still prefer LG's color.

Easy for the eyes: My spouse's Nano Studio Display takes the crown -- it is so much easier for the eyes for any long duration usage.

Cost: LG 5K has been discontinued -- if you can find good deal for brand new one, otherwise, you have to settle with "used one." Apple Studio Display is a big investment -- your call.

Manufacture warranty: Studio Display can have Apple Care on it, not LG 5K (discontinued) -- just bear this in mind.

Known issues: LG's TB port has been an issue (flimsy port) - I am using a 90 degree TB cable, with a thick double-side pad to secure the cable at the back. Poor sound quality, weak speaker.

Studio Display: (center stage seems fancy) - but the webcam is less optimal.

Just my 2 cents

Best

I have had my LG for several years and no issues with any connections. I also have the Apple Studio display which has the same screen image but the case is nicer but the camera is worse.

I'm biting the 5K 27-inch Apple Display bullet fior an M4 Mac Mini. Just hope it can last 5-7 years. My mid 2017, 27-inch iMac has lasted 7+ years. Great 5K display. I need sharp, hi-res text.

However, I would prefer a 30-inch, 6K monitor for a reasonable price.

LG still available. best price here:

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1499337-REG/lg_27md5klb_b_27_ultrafine_5k_16_9.html