Connecting MacBook Pro M4 to Cinema Display - Fixed

It’s been a while and I’d like to update my experience for all those having issues to connect the new M chip Macs to old gen Cinema Displays.

The USB-C to Mindisplay port adapter in my post from Jan 2025 (link here below) hasn’t been very successful. Even though would allow the M4 MBPro to connect to the Cinema Display would not allow brightness control on the external display. Brightness was so tuned down to result inoperable.

External monitor connection issue - Apple Community

I’ve solved the problem by purchasing an adapter which instead supports active conversion of the signal between Mac and Cinema Display. And active conversion is what you need in order to have brightness control on the Cinema Display. 

The adapter in question is by "StarTech.com, product code CDP2MDPEC, USB C to Mini DisplayPort Adapter 4K 60Hz, Dongle Adapter/Converter USB Type C to mDP Monitor, TB3 Compatible".

Purchased on Amazon, you can buy on their website as well. Image here below.

To have the ability to control brightness though make sure to have the USB from the Cinema Display pigtail plugged in the Mac.

[Edited by Moderator]