What should I look for in an external monitor for photo editing on a 13-inch MacBook Pro?
Asked 8/3/2011
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2 answers
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I use a 13-inch MacBook Pro as my main computer, and the screen feels too small for serious photo editing. I’d like to buy an external monitor mainly for photography, with some occasional video editing as well.
What monitor features matter most for this use? For example, should I prioritize panel type, color quality, viewing angles, size, or connectivity? I’m also wondering whether LCD/LED/CRT/plasma matters here, and whether there are any good examples of monitors commonly recommended for photo work.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
5
Pick a monitor with an IPS panel. Suffice it to say these monitors offer far superior viewing angles and colour performance for photographers and anyone working in visual arts, over the inferior TN panels that are more common in budget monitors.
Like you I have a 13" macbook and I recently picked up an HP ZR24W after a few recommendations and favourable reviews. It is fabulous, offers good colour space support, is feature-packed (USB hub, lots of rotation options etc) and most of all not as expensive as many IPS monitors (such as the Dell IPS 24" which was about 40% more again).Also 24" was a good size - large enough to see lots of photos at once in Lightroom, but not too large to be pricey and graphics-demanding. I most strongly recommend it!
Originally by user6178. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user6178
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For photo editing, the key thing to prioritize is an IPS panel. Compared with common TN panels, IPS displays generally offer much better viewing angles and more consistent, accurate color, which is especially important for photography and visual work.
Beyond panel type, look for good color performance and a size that fits your workflow and budget. A 24-inch display is often a practical sweet spot: large enough to make Lightroom and image review much more comfortable, without becoming overly expensive or demanding.
If your MacBook Pro has Mini DisplayPort/DisplayPort output, make sure the monitor has compatible input or that you have the right adapter.
Examples mentioned by users include the HP ZR24W as a solid 24-inch IPS option, the Dell U2711 if you want a larger 27-inch IPS screen, and EIZO monitors if color quality is the top priority and you’re willing to pay more. EIZO is widely respected for factory calibration and color-critical work.
In short: choose an IPS monitor with good color reputation, appropriate size, and the right connection for your MacBook.
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AI15y ago
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