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Best External Monitor For Imac (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for an external monitor for your iMac, there are a few important factors to consider before you make your purchase. An external monitor can enhance your visual experience and productivity with a larger screen and higher resolution, but you'll need to figure out which size and resolution suits your work best. In addition, you'll need to make sure that your iMac is compatible with the external monitor that you choose.

Before making your purchase, think about the size and resolution of the external monitor that would best meet your needs. Consider what you will be using it for and how often you'll use it. If you plan to use the external monitor for work and require high resolution, you might want to consider getting a 4K monitor. However, if you'll mainly use it for gaming or entertainment, a 1080p or 1440p monitor may suffice. It’s also important to make sure that the monitor is compatible with your iMac's Thunderbolt or HDMI ports.

Do you want to improve your productivity, gaming experience, or visual enjoyment while working on your iMac? Are you tired of using your iMac's small screen, which strains your eyes after long hours of work? Have you considered whether an external monitor for your iMac is the right option for you? Keep reading to learn more about how an external monitor can supplement your productivity and lifestyle.

10 Best External Monitor For Imac

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for computer use, with an IPS display, built-in speakers, and adjustable height and tilt for ergonomic viewing.
2
It is ideal for displaying high-quality images and graphics with its IPS display technology in a stylish silver design.
3
This product is ideal for connecting devices like iPads, MacBook Pros/Airs, iMacs, Galaxy phones, Surface, Dell, and HP to HDMI displays.
4
Ideal for immersive and efficient computer work with a large, high-quality display, fast refresh rate, and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity.
5
Ideal for viewing high-quality content on a computer with its Full HD resolution and ultra-thin frame design.
6
The product is ideal for displaying stunning 4K resolution with vibrant colors and versatile connectivity options.
7
The product is ideal for high-resolution display with smooth video gaming experience, suitable for VESA certified setups.
8
The product is ideal for users seeking a high-quality monitor with built-in speakers, versatile mounting options, and multiple connectivity options.
9
Ideal for high-quality display and audio, with a fast refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology, suitable for versatile use.
10
Ideal for connecting USB Type C devices such as MacBooks, Dell XPS, and Galaxy phones to an HDMI display.
The product is ideal for computer use, with an IPS display, built-in speakers, and adjustable height and tilt for ergonomic viewing.
It is ideal for displaying high-quality images and graphics with its IPS display technology in a stylish silver design.
This product is ideal for connecting devices like iPads, MacBook Pros/Airs, iMacs, Galaxy phones, Surface, Dell, and HP to HDMI displays.
Ideal for immersive and efficient computer work with a large, high-quality display, fast refresh rate, and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity.
Ideal for viewing high-quality content on a computer with its Full HD resolution and ultra-thin frame design.
The product is ideal for displaying stunning 4K resolution with vibrant colors and versatile connectivity options.
The product is ideal for high-resolution display with smooth video gaming experience, suitable for VESA certified setups.
The product is ideal for users seeking a high-quality monitor with built-in speakers, versatile mounting options, and multiple connectivity options.
Ideal for high-quality display and audio, with a fast refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology, suitable for versatile use.
Ideal for connecting USB Type C devices such as MacBooks, Dell XPS, and Galaxy phones to an HDMI display.

1. 24mh Fhd Monitor – Ultimate Viewing Experience

Experience outstanding visual quality with this FHD display featuring IPS technology. The monitor offers a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 at 75 Hz, ensuring image accuracy and wide-viewing spectrums similar to premium tablets and mobile devices. The ultra-slim design provides more desk space than you thought possible, while the virtually bezel-free micro-edge display offers a seamless multi-monitor setup. Enjoy vibrant detail from practically any position with a 178° horizontal and vertical viewing angle. Connect to your PC, gaming console, and peripherals with ease using a broad range of ports, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA. The built-in 2W speakers provide an immersive audio experience, while the Low Blue Light mode reduces eye strain. Adjust the height and tilt of the screen to find the most comfortable position with a 100mm range of travel and 5° forward or 23° backward tilt. This environmentally conscious and energy-efficient monitor is backed by HP's standard 1-year limited warranty, allowing you to work confidently and rest easy.

Pros

  • IPS technology ensures brilliant visuals and image accuracy
  • Ultra-slim design provides more desk space
  • Micro-edge display offers seamless multi-monitor setup
  • 178° viewing angle provides consistent color and image clarity from any position
  • Broad range of ports for easy connectivity
  • Built-in speakers provide immersive audio experience
  • Low Blue Light mode reduces eye strain
  • Adjustable height and tilt for a comfortable viewing experience
  • Environmentally conscious and energy-efficient monitor
  • Backed by HP's standard 1-year limited warranty

2. Lg Neo Blade Iii Fhd 24-Inch Computer Monitor 24mp88hv-S – Ips Display, Silver

Experience stunning visuals with the versatile LG monitor that utilizes IPS technology for shorter response times, improved color reproduction, and wider viewing angles. With sRGB 99% coverage, this monitor ensures highly accurate color for your work or entertainment needs. Enjoy an ultra-slim 2.5-millimeter bezel that creates a virtually borderless aesthetic, adding a touch of elegance to any workspace.

Make adjustments effortlessly with On-Screen control. Customize your monitor layout for multitasking with the latest version of LG Screen Split. Choose from 14 options, including four different picture-in-picture (PIP) choices to resize and display multiple windows at once. Reader Mode provides optimal conditions for reading. With just a click of a mouse, you can more comfortably read your display.

Black Stabilizer detects dark scenes and improves visibility so you can see fine details. The new ArcLine stand adds to the sleek design of LG premium monitors. The smooth curve of the base provides stability, assuring dependable performance with a touch of elegance. Get ready to enjoy an immersive visual experience with the LG monitor.

Pros

  • IPS technology ensures shorter response times, improved color reproduction, and wider viewing angles
  • sRGB 99% coverage for highly accurate color
  • Ultra-slim 2.5-millimeter bezel for a virtually borderless aesthetic
  • On-Screen control allows for easy adjustments
  • Latest version of LG Screen Split allows for customization of monitor layout for multitasking
  • Reader Mode provides optimal conditions for reading
  • Black Stabilizer detects dark scenes and improves visibility
  • New ArcLine stand adds to the sleek design of LG premium monitors
  • Smooth curve of the base provides stability and dependable performance

3. Thunderbolt Hdmi Adapter, 4k, High Speed.

The WARRKY USB-C to HDMI cable is a plug-and-play solution that allows users to stream 4K content from their phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer to larger displays like monitors, TVs, or projectors with high speed. This cable is HDCP compliant and supports UHD, providing clear and vivid 4K@30Hz high resolution. It is also backward compatible with 1440P@60hz and 1080P@120hz. Please note that this cable only works with USB-C host devices with video output function.

The WARRKY USB-C to HDMI cable features gold-plated connectors and an aluminum casing for better heat dissipation, ensuring secure high-speed data transmission free from interference. The thicker copper wire distinctively minimizes signal loss with maximum conductivity, and the cable fits snugly for a reliable connection. The cable's streamlined metal pieces are seamlessly connected, and it comes with a perfect length for home office setups and an extra velcro tie for travel. The stylish gray metallic case with a hue of blue and user-friendly strain relief for smooth plug-unplug add to the overall design.

The WARRKY USB-C to HDMI cable is compatible with Type C ports with video output function *DP Alt Mode* and Thunderbolt 3 & 4. It is compatible with Apple MacBook Pro 2016-2021, iMac 2017-2020, MacBook Air 2018-2022, iPad Pro 2021, Surface Book 2 / 3, Surface Laptop 3, Dell XPS 15/13, HP Chromebook x360, Samsung Galaxy S20/S10/S9/S8, Note 10/9/8, LG V40, and more.

WARRKY is dedicated to introducing superb-quality products that are sophisticatedly designed and reasonably priced for providing the best solutions to connect your work and life. Consult for fast and responsible support within 18hrs!

Pros

  • Plug-and-play solution for streaming 4K content from multiple devices to larger displays
  • HDCP compliant and supports UHD, providing clear and vivid 4K@30Hz high resolution
  • Gold-plated connectors and an aluminum casing for better heat dissipation, ensuring secure high-speed data transmission free from interference
  • Thicker copper wire distinctively minimizes signal loss with maximum conductivity, and the cable fits snugly for a reliable connection
  • Compatible with various Type C ports and Thunderbolt 3 & 4 devices

Cons

  • – Only works with USB-C host devices with video output function

4. 34" Creator's Ultra-Qhd Monitor With Thunderbolt 3

Experience the ultimate convenience of a single-source power and charging with the first curved monitor featuring Intel Thunderbolt 3. With one cable, you can easily link and dock both your monitor and laptop. Thunderbolt 3 technology offers a 40 Gbps processing speed, which is 4x faster than USB, and can provide up to 85W laptop charging.

This monitor offers connectivity options that are compatible with a wide range of devices including docks, displays, and peripherals such as Macs, USB Type-C laptops, E storage drives, and external graphics cards. The ultra-wide WQHD resolution of 3440 x 1440 provides a great multi-tasking experience, and the intuitive screen split software PBP/PIP further enhances productivity.

The QLED technology of this monitor delivers a wide range of colors and darker blacks, thanks to its impressive 3000:1 contrast ratio. Thunderbolt 3 technology provides compatibility with both MacBook and PC. With a refresh rate of 100 hertz, this monitor is ideal for gaming and streaming high-quality content.

Pros

  • Single-source power and charging for convenience
  • Thunderbolt 3 technology provides fast processing speed and up to 85W laptop charging
  • Compatible with a wide range of devices including Macs, USB Type-C laptops, E storage drives, and external graphics cards
  • Ultra-wide WQHD resolution and intuitive screen split software enhance productivity
  • QLED technology delivers a wide range of colors and darker blacks
  • Compatible with both MacBook and PC
  • Ideal for gaming and streaming with a refresh rate of 100 hertz

5. Zero Frame 21.5" Acer Full Hd Monitor

Experience stunning visuals with the 21.5 inches Full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen IPS display of this monitor. The IPS panel offers exceptional color accuracy and a wide viewing angle of 178 degrees vertically and horizontally, providing clear images from any angle. The Radeon free sync technology offers seamless gameplay, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering. The monitor has a refresh rate of 75 hertz when using the HDMI port, ensuring smooth visuals.

The zero-frame design and ultra-thin profile of the monitor provide a sleek and modern look, while the 4ms response time ensures quick and accurate display of fast-moving images. The monitor supports 16.7 million colors, providing accurate and vivid colors for your content. The monitor has a brightness of 250 nit, making it suitable for use in bright environments.

The monitor has one HDMI and one VGA port, allowing for easy connectivity with your devices. The aspect ratio of the monitor is 16:9, providing a widescreen viewing experience. The monitor can be tilted from -5 degrees to 15 degrees, allowing for comfortable viewing angles.

Please note that this monitor is not compatible with VESA mounts.

Pros

  • Stunning visual experience with Full HD IPS display
  • Radeon free sync technology for seamless gameplay
  • Zero-frame design and ultra-thin profile for a modern look
  • Quick and accurate display with 4ms response time
  • Wide viewing angle for clear images from any angle
  • Easy connectivity with one HDMI and one VGA port
  • Accurate and vivid colors with support for 16.7 million colors
  • Suitable for use in bright environments with 250 nit brightness
  • Adjustable tilt angle for comfortable viewing

Cons

  • – Not compatible with VESA mounts

6. 27" Lg Ultrafine 4k Uhd Ips Monitor.

Experience a whole new level of work and gaming with this monitor that features VESA DisplayHDR 400 high dynamic range compatibility. It boasts 400 nits of brightness that adds depth to textures, elements, character movements, and natural light and shadow. With 99% sRGB spectrum coverage, this monitor is an ideal choice for photographers, graphic designers, or anyone who demands highly accurate colors. The monitor also features AMD FreeSync that manages the refresh rate and reduces screen tearing, flicker, and stuttering for a seamless gaming experience. Transform standard content into HDR-quality video right on the screen using a picture quality algorithm that improves the tone mapping and luminance of SDR content for an HDR-like experience. It also comes with two FPS modes and a real-time strategy mode that optimizes your gaming conditions. With On-Screen Control, you can easily adjust your screen settings with just a few clicks of your mouse.

Pros

  • VESA DisplayHDR 400 high dynamic range compatibility
  • 400 nits of brightness for added depth
  • 99% sRGB spectrum coverage for accurate colors
  • AMD FreeSync reduces screen tearing, flicker, and stuttering
  • Picture quality algorithm for HDR-like experience
  • Customized game modes for optimized gaming conditions
  • On-Screen Control for easy screen adjustments

7. Dell 4k Monitor: Ultra-Thin Bezel & Freesync

Experience stunning visuals and fine details with the three-sided ultrathin bezel design of this 4K UHD monitor. Its 3840 x 2160 resolution offers four times the resolution of Full HD, providing immersive viewing with incredible clarity. Moreover, it supports HDR content playback, which enhances the visual experience to be more lifelike. The monitor is not curved, but it still offers an excellent display in every angle.

This monitor has a modern and elegant design, featuring a subtle textured pattern at the back that adds to its unique look. It's perfect for any living space, as it blends harmoniously with great style and quality.

Gamers can enjoy a smooth and tear-free experience with AMD FreeSync technology. The monitor also has a height adjustable stand, tilt, swivel & pivot features, providing flexibility for all-day comfort.

Pros

  • Provides stunning visuals with fine details
  • Features a modern and elegant design with a subtle textured pattern at the back
  • Supports HDR content playback for a more lifelike visual experience
  • Offers a tear-free experience with AMD FreeSync technology
  • Comes with height adjustable stand, tilt, swivel & pivot features

8. Full Hd Monitor With Speaker And Mounting

The Certified Refurbished Monitor has been carefully inspected and tested by the manufacturer to ensure it meets the same standards as a brand new product. It may show limited or no wear and comes with all original accessories, including a 90-day limited hardware warranty. This means you can enjoy top-notch quality at a more affordable price.

With a response time of 5ms and overdrive technology, this monitor delivers a smooth picture that looks crisp and fluid without motion blur. Whether you're gaming or watching videos, every detail will be displayed with stunning clarity.

Enjoy great sound with the built-in speakers that deliver 2 watts per channel. This means you can immerse yourself in your favorite music, movies, or games without having to purchase external speakers.

The monitor's ultra-thin bezel-less frame provides a virtually seamless multi-monitor set-up, making it perfect for professionals who need to work on multiple screens at once. With 3-sided narrow bezels, you can enjoy an immersive viewing experience without any distractions.

Pros

  • Certified Refurbished product that meets the same standards as a brand new product
  • 5ms response time with overdrive technology for a smooth and crisp picture
  • Built-in speakers with 2 watts per channel for great sound
  • Ultra-thin bezel-less frame for a virtually seamless multi-monitor set-up

9. Dell's High-Class Usb-C Monitor – S2723hc

Experience superior screen functionality and superb style with this 27-inch USB-C monitor. Its three-sided ultrathin bezel design allows you to see more with less distraction. The monitor's versatile connectivity allows for easy charging and connection of your laptop using a single-cable solution that transmits power, video, audio, and data simultaneously, reducing clutter on your desktop. Customize your viewing experience with the height-adjustable stand that tilts, swivels, and pivots, allowing you to adjust to your most optimal position. This USB-C monitor also comes equipped with built-in dual 3W speakers, providing a complete package for immersive media consumption. ComfortView Plus is a built-in, always-on low blue light screen that improves eye comfort by lowering potentially hazardous blue light emissions while maintaining great color accuracy, making it easy on the eyes for long hours of work or entertainment.

Experience a new level of productivity with this 27-inch USB-C monitor. Its ultrathin bezel design allows you to view more content with a wider viewing angle, enhancing your overall visual experience. The monitor's versatile connectivity features a single-cable solution that transmits power, video, audio, and data simultaneously, reducing the clutter on your desk. The height-adjustable stand lets you customize your viewing angle, ensuring maximum comfort while viewing. The built-in dual 3W speakers deliver an immersive audio experience, making it ideal for watching movies or playing games. The monitor's ComfortView Plus technology reduces blue light emissions, protecting your eyes from potential strain, and maintaining color accuracy. Get ready to work or play with less eye fatigue and more comfort.

Get ready to boost your productivity with this 27-inch USB-C monitor. Its ultrathin bezel design allows for a wider viewing area with minimal distractions, ensuring an immersive visual experience. The monitor's versatile connectivity features a single-cable solution that transmits power, video, audio, and data simultaneously, providing a clutter-free workspace. The height-adjustable stand allows you to customize your viewing angle, ensuring maximum comfort while viewing. The built-in dual 3W speakers provide an immersive audio experience, making it perfect for watching movies or playing games. The ComfortView Plus technology reduces blue light emissions, protecting your eyes from potential strain, and maintaining color accuracy. Experience a new level of comfort and productivity with this USB-C monitor.

Pros

  • Ultrathin bezel design for a wider viewing area
  • Versatile connectivity with a single-cable solution
  • Height-adjustable stand for customizable viewing angles
  • Built-in dual 3W speakers for an immersive audio experience
  • ComfortView Plus technology reduces blue light emissions, protecting your eyes

Cons

  • – No mention of the monitor's resolution or refresh rate

10. Thunderbolt Hdmi Cable – Connect Anywhere!

The Amiroko USB C to HDMI Cable is a reliable and efficient way to connect your USB-C port devices to any HDMI displays, monitors, and projectors to transmit high-definition video and audio. This cable supports high definition 4K resolution and can transmit video and audio that is truer to the original.

This cable is universally compatible with a wide range of devices, including MacBook Pro 2016/2017/2018/2019/2020/2021, MacBook 12", MacBook Air 2018/2019/2020, iPadPro 2018/2020/2021, Mac Mini 2018/2020, iMac 2017-2021, Chromebook Pixel Laptop, Dell XPS 13/15, Alienware 13/15/17, Yoga 900, HP EliteBook Folio G1, ASUS GA-Z170X, Acer V15 Nitro, Samsung Galaxy S8/S8 Plus/Note 8/S9/S10/S20, and more.

It is important to note that this cable is designed mainly for computers and laptops, not for tablets and phones. However, it does support the protocol of DP Alt Mode for select devices like Samsung Galaxy S8/ S8 Plus/ Note 8/ Lumia 950/950 XL/ LG G5/ Huawei Mate 10/ HTC U11.

This cable is easy to use and well-made. It is a plug and play device that requires no external power or driver. The fully reversible USB-C interface is gold-plated for providing maximum conductivity and improving the signal transmission. The aluminum case design makes the cable more durable and refined.

Pros

  • Supports high definition 4K resolution for truer-to-the-original video and audio quality
  • Universally compatible with a wide range of devices
  • Easy to use and plug and play, no external power or driver required
  • Fully reversible USB-C interface is gold-plated for maximum conductivity
  • Aluminum case design makes the cable more durable and refined

Cons

  • – Not designed for tablets and phones except for select devices

Best External Monitor For Imac FAQs

Can I use a PC monitor as an external display for my iMac?

Yes, it is possible to use a PC monitor as an external display for your iMac. This can be done using a variety of methods, depending on the type of iMac you have and the ports available on your monitor.

One option is to use a Thunderbolt to HDMI or VGA adapter to connect your iMac to the monitor. This will allow you to mirror or extend your iMac's display onto the external monitor. Another option is to use a third-party software such as Air Display or Duet Display to turn your iPad or PC into a second display for your iMac.

However, it is important to note that not all monitors are compatible with Macs, so you should check the specifications of your monitor before attempting to connect it to your iMac. Additionally, using an external display may require adjusting the resolution and display settings on your iMac to ensure optimal performance.

How do I adjust the display settings on an external monitor connected to my iMac?

To adjust the display settings on an external monitor connected to your iMac, you first need to make sure that your monitor is correctly connected to your iMac. Once you have established the connection, you can go to the Apple menu and click on System Preferences. From there, click on Displays, and you will see a list of available displays. Select the external monitor that you want to adjust and click on the Arrangement tab. From this tab, you can choose the orientation of the external monitor and adjust its resolution.

You can also adjust the color settings of the external monitor by clicking on the Color tab. Here, you can choose the color profile that best suits your needs. If you want to adjust the brightness and contrast of your external monitor, you can do so by clicking on the Display tab. From here, you can adjust the brightness and contrast sliders to your liking. By following these simple steps, you can easily adjust the display settings on an external monitor connected to your iMac.

How do I connect an external monitor to my iMac?

Connecting an external monitor to your iMac can be a great way to expand your screen real estate and improve your productivity. Here are the steps you need to follow to connect an external monitor to your iMac:

1. Check the ports on your iMac: Look for the Thunderbolt or Mini DisplayPort on the back of your iMac. These ports are used to connect external monitors.

2. Get the right cable: Depending on the ports on your iMac and the monitor, you will need to get the right cable. For example, if your monitor has an HDMI port, you will need a Thunderbolt to HDMI cable.

3. Connect the cable: Once you have the right cable, connect one end to the iMac and the other end to the monitor.

4. Turn on the monitor: Make sure the monitor is turned on and set to the correct input.

5. Configure the display: Go to System Preferences > Displays and choose the Arrangement tab. From there, you can choose how you want the displays to be arranged.

That's it! You should now be able to use your external monitor with your iMac.

What is the best external monitor for an iMac?

There are plenty of external monitors that are compatible with an iMac, but the best one depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some of the most popular options include the LG UltraFine 5K Display, Dell UltraSharp U2718Q, and HP Envy 27.

The LG UltraFine 5K Display is a great choice for those who prioritize high resolution and color accuracy. With a resolution of 5120×2880, it offers stunning visuals and is perfect for tasks like photo and video editing. However, it is also one of the most expensive options on the market.

The Dell UltraSharp U2718Q is a more affordable option that still offers impressive color accuracy and a 4K resolution. It also has a sleek design and a variety of connectivity options.

The HP Envy 27 is another great option that offers a 4K resolution, a wide color gamut, and a stylish design. It also has built-in speakers and a USB-C port for charging devices.

Ultimately, the best external monitor for your iMac will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consider factors like resolution, color accuracy, connectivity options, and price when making your decision.

What is the maximum resolution supported by an external monitor for an iMac?

The maximum resolution supported by an external monitor for an iMac depends on the model and year of the iMac. Generally, the latest iMac models support a resolution of up to 5120 x 2880 pixels on an external display. However, some older models may only support resolutions up to 2560 x 1600 pixels.

To ensure that your iMac is capable of supporting the maximum resolution of your external monitor, you should check the specifications of both your iMac and monitor. It is also important to note that the type of connector used to connect the iMac to the external monitor can also affect the maximum resolution supported. For example, using a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) or HDMI 2.0 cable may allow for higher resolutions than using a DisplayPort or DVI cable.

Overall, it is always best to check the specifications of both your iMac and external monitor to ensure that they are compatible and capable of supporting the desired resolution.

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