If you’re looking for a second monitor to pair up with your iMac, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re looking to boost productivity, set up a dual-display workstation or simply extend your screen space, a second monitor can help. But before you jump in and start browsing options, it’s important to consider a few factors.
Firstly, make sure the monitor you choose has compatibility with your iMac model. Secondly, consider the size and resolution you’ll need based on your usage. If you’re a creative professional, you might require higher resolution and color accuracy than someone who just needs a second screen for emails and web browsing. Lastly, decide on the monitor’s port connectivity, as you may need to purchase an adapter to connect it to your iMac.
Do you find yourself constantly switching back and forth between applications on your iMac? Is your workload demanding and you need an extra screen’s worth of space to work efficiently? If so, a second monitor can make all the difference. But, with so many options on the market, it can be tough to select the right one. Stay tuned for our top picks and expert buying advice to help make your decision much easier.
10 Best Second Monitor For Imac
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This product is ideal for professional use with crisp 1080p resolution, multiple input options, and built-in speakers.
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Ideal for viewing high-quality content on a computer with its Full HD resolution and ultra-thin frame design.
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This product is ideal for connecting devices like iPads, MacBook Pros/Airs, iMacs, Galaxy phones, Surface, Dell, and HP to HDMI displays.
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Ideal for a high-quality computer monitor with IPS technology, HDR 10 compatibility, and a sleek silver design.
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5
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The product is ideal for computer displays, featuring built-in speakers and a wide viewing angle.
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Ideal for immersive and efficient computer work with a large, high-quality display, fast refresh rate, and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity.
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7
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The product is an attachable portable monitor for laptops that is compatible with Mac, PC, and Chrome and can be powered by USB or Mini HDMI.
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Ideal for high-quality computer display with clear picture, smooth graphics and optimized color performance.
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9
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Ideal for professionals who require exceptional color accuracy and display quality for their work, such as photographers and video editors.
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10
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The product is ideal for attaching a portable monitor to a laptop with dual-screen capabilities.
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1. Sceptre 24" Hd Led Monitor – Pro Series.
Experience stunning visuals with this 24" ultra-slim profile LED monitor. Its contemporary sleek metallic design with slim bezel and thin chassis is perfect for any modern setup. With a fast response time and up to 75Hz refresh rate, it delivers smooth and fluid visuals that are perfect for gaming, multimedia, and work.
The monitor comes with 2 HDMI ports that are convertible to DVI, so you can easily connect it to your PC, laptop, or other compatible devices. It also has built-in speakers that deliver clear and crisp audio, and you can also attach your own speakers or use headphones for a more immersive experience.
The monitor is VESA wall mount ready, and its mounting type is VESA hole pattern 100mm x 100mm, making it easy to set up and install. Whether you're a gamer, a multimedia enthusiast, or a professional, this LED monitor is an excellent choice for all your needs.
- Ultra-slim profile with contemporary sleek metallic design
- Fast response time and up to 75Hz refresh rate for smooth and fluid visuals
- Built-in speakers deliver clear and crisp audio
- VESA wall mount ready for easy installation
- – No mention of the resolution, which may be a concern for some users
2. 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.
- 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
- – Not compatible with VESA mounts
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!
- 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
- – Only works with USB-C host devices with video output function
4. Lg 29-Inch Ultrawide Fhd Computer Monitor.
The 29-inch Full HD IPS Display with a 21:9 screen ratio and 2560×1080 resolution delivers accurate, realistic colors and enhanced contrast, clarity, and detail at wide angles. It supports HDR10 and provides 99% coverage of the sRGB spectrum for precise color performance, making it an excellent choice for photographers and graphic designers. With 33% more screen space than Full HD displays, users can view multiple windows and screenshares side-by-side on one screen, increasing productivity by minimizing alt-tabbing. AMD FreeSync manages the refresh rate, reducing screen tearing, flickering, and stuttering for smooth gaming performance on supported video cards such as the AMD Radeon series. Two FPS modes and an RTS mode are included, and On-Screen Control allows for easy screen adjustments with just a few clicks of the mouse.
- Wide screen and 33% more screen space than Full HD displays.
- Realistic, accurate colors and enhanced contrast, clarity, and detail at wide angles.
- HDR10 support and 99% sRGB spectrum coverage for precise color performance.
- AMD FreeSync manages refresh rate for smooth gaming performance.
- Two FPS modes and an RTS mode are included for gamers.
- On-Screen Control allows for easy screen adjustments with just a few clicks of the mouse.
5. Ultra Thin Wide Viewing Led Monitor – Sceptre 20
Experience stunning visuals with the 20" Led HD+ monitor which offers a high resolution of 1600 x 900. The monitor is equipped with 2 HDMI ports that can be converted to DVI for versatile connectivity options. With a fast response time of 5ms, this monitor provides smooth and blur-free images, making it perfect for gaming and multimedia applications. The monitor's dimensions with stand are 18.01 x 7.02 x 13.57 inches and without stand are 18.01 x 1.32 x 10.43 inches, making it compact and easy to fit on your desk. It is VESA wall mount ready with a 75mm x 75mm hole pattern, giving you the option to mount it on the wall for more space. The contrast ratio of 3,000:1 ensures that colors are vivid and bright, while the built-in speakers provide clear audio without the need for external speakers.
Overall, the 20" Led HD+ monitor is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality display that delivers exceptional image quality and features. Its fast response time, high resolution, and versatile connectivity options make it a great choice for gaming, multimedia, or work purposes. It is also compact and easy to set up, with the option to mount it on the wall for more space. The built-in speakers are an added bonus, providing clear audio without the need for external speakers.
- High resolution of 1600 x 900
- Fast response time of 5ms
- Versatile connectivity options with 2 HDMI ports that can be converted to DVI
- Compact and easy to fit on your desk
- VESA wall mount ready with a 75mm x 75mm hole pattern
- Contrast ratio of 3,000:1 ensures that colors are vivid and bright
- Built-in speakers provide clear audio without the need for external speakers
6. 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.
- 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
7. Swivelattach: Portable Dual Screen For Laptops
The SideTrak Swivel is an innovative and ultra-portable attachable monitor that instantly doubles your laptop screen workspace. It is the only swivel attachable monitor on the market that features a patented swivel hinge, which allows for a 360° swivel and 270° rotation to adjust to your ideal viewing angle. The monitor also has an integrated kickstand that lets you instantly transition it to freestanding mode.
Weighing only 1.2lbs, the SideTrak Swivel is a lightweight and portable device that has a strong, device-safe magnetic connection, which allows you to pick up your laptop while the SideTrak is still open and move from room to room without having to take down your whole setup. The monitor can be extended for better multitasking or mirrored for display purposes, and you can rotate it horizontally or vertically to share your screen with others.
The SideTrak Swivel is compatible with most devices and operating systems, including Mac, PC, Chrome, PS4, Xbox, and Switch. It does not require a download and can be connected with just one cord, which requires a Thunderbolt or DisplayLink USB-C port. However, if your laptop has a different port type, you may require a two-cords connection, USB-A & HDMI. Its compact, innovative attachment is designed to fit any laptop size, and its built-in kickstand allows it to transition to a freestanding monitor.
- Patented swivel hinge for 360° swivel and 270° rotation
- Instantly doubles laptop screen workspace
- Portable and lightweight design for easy mobility
- Strong, device-safe magnetic connection
- Compatible with most devices and operating systems
- Compact and innovative attachment fits any laptop size
- – Requires specific port type for one-cord connection
8. Ultra-Wide Lg Uhd Monitor With Freesync & Hdr.
Experience exceptional image clarity with this 4K UHD (3840×2160) monitor equipped with HDR 10, which sets the industry standard for High Dynamic Range imaging. With four times the resolution of Full HD, it delivers stunningly detailed visuals that are sure to impress.
Thanks to IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology, this versatile monitor provides shorter response times and wider viewing angles. Additionally, color calibration and sRGB 98% coverage ensure highly accurate color reproduction, making it ideal for photo and video editing.
The monitor is compatible with supported video cards such as the AMD Radeon series, and AMD FreeSync technology manages refresh rate to minimize screen tearing, flicker, and stuttering, resulting in a smooth gaming experience. HDCP 2.2 support ensures that you can view 4K high-resolution content from streaming services, video game consoles, and Ultra HD Blu-ray disc players.
Customized game modes optimize your gaming conditions with two first-person-shooter (FPS) modes and a real-time strategy (RTS) mode as well. You can also make screen adjustments with a few clicks of your mouse using On-Screen Control*.
- Highly accurate color reproduction thanks to color calibration and sRGB 98% coverage
- Compatible with AMD Radeon series video cards and AMD FreeSync technology for a smooth gaming experience
- HDCP 2.2 support enables viewing of 4K high-resolution content from various sources
- Customized game modes optimize gaming conditions
- On-Screen Control allows for easy screen adjustments
- – May not be suitable for those on a tight budget
- – May not be ideal for those who do not require 4K resolution
9. Apple 32-Inch Pro Display Xdr With Retina 6k Display – Standard Glass
Experience stunning visuals with the 32-inch LCD display that boasts of Retina 6K resolution (6016 by 3384 pixels). The monitor supports extreme dynamic range (XDR) and has a brightness of 1000 nits sustained and 1600 nits peak. With a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1, you can enjoy rich and deep colors. The P3 wide color gamut and 10-bit color depth enhance your viewing experience like never before.
The monitor has a superwide viewing angle, allowing you to view the content from any angle without straining your eyes. It also has reference modes that enable you to match the color of your content with the actual footage. The monitor has one Thunderbolt 3 port and three USB-C ports, providing you with seamless connectivity options.
Please note that the Pro Stand and VESA Mount Adapter are sold separately.
- Retina 6K resolution (6016 by 3384 pixels)
- Extreme Dynamic Range (XDR)
- Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
- P3 wide color gamut and 10-bit color depth
- Superwide viewing angle
- Reference modes
- One Thunderbolt 3 port and three USB-C ports for seamless connectivity
- – Pro Stand and VESA Mount Adapter are sold separately
10. Swivelmate Laptop Monitor: 14" Attachable Usb-C/hdmi Compatible
Experience the ultimate viewing experience with the SideTrak Swivel, the only swivel attachable monitor available in the market. Its patented swivel hinge enables a 360° swivel and 270° rotation to get the perfect viewing angle. The integrated kickstand allows the monitor to instantly transition to freestanding mode. The ultra-portable monitor is 14” LCD TFT that securely attaches to the back of your laptop, making it a dual-screen setup that combines productivity with the portability of a laptop. The SideTrak Swivel is the perfect solution for those who need to work on two screens but want to keep things light and mobile. It doesn't require a table, making it easy to work anywhere with two screens.
The SideTrak Swivel 14” portable laptop monitor is designed for exceptional picture quality and sleek design. It boasts ultra-thin bezels and Full HD picture quality, giving you a larger screen to extend or mirror your laptop display. The monitor's flexible viewing options include autorotate, and adjustable screen brightness, so you can work comfortably in any lighting condition.
This portable monitor is compatible with all device sizes and most operating systems, including Mac, PC, Chrome, PS4, Xbox, and Switch. There's no need to download any software or drivers, making it easy to use and set up.
- Patented swivel hinge for 360° swivel and 270° rotation
- Ultra-portable and lightweight design
- Easy to attach to your laptop for an instant dual-screen setup
- Exceptional Full HD picture quality and ultra-thin bezel design
- Autorotate feature and adjustable screen brightness for flexible viewing
- Compatible with all device sizes and most operating systems, no software or drivers required
Best Second Monitor For Imac FAQs
Are there any compatibility issues with using a second monitor with an iMac?
No, there are no compatibility issues when using a second monitor with an iMac. In fact, iMacs are designed to support multiple displays, including external monitors. You can easily connect a second monitor to your iMac using a Thunderbolt or HDMI cable. Once connected, you can customize your display settings to set up the second monitor as an extension of your iMac's screen, or use it as a mirrored display. This enables you to work on multiple tasks simultaneously or easily share content with others during presentations or meetings. It's worth noting that the specific compatibility of your iMac with a second monitor may depend on the model and year of your iMac, as well as the type of monitor you are using. However, as long as you have the necessary cables and compatible hardware, you should be able to use a second monitor with your iMac without any issues.
Can I use a PC monitor as a second monitor for my iMac?
Yes, you can use a PC monitor as a second monitor for your iMac. In fact, it's a great way to increase your productivity and multitasking capabilities. All you need is a compatible cable, which will depend on the ports available on your iMac and the PC monitor. For example, if your iMac has a Thunderbolt port and your PC monitor has an HDMI port, you'll need a Thunderbolt to HDMI cable.
Once you have the cable, connect your iMac and PC monitor, and go to System Preferences > Displays on your iMac. You should see both monitors listed, and you can arrange them to your liking. You can also adjust the resolution and other display settings for each monitor.
It's important to note that the performance of the second monitor will depend on the specifications of your iMac, the PC monitor, and the cable. If you're planning to use the second monitor for graphic-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing, you may want to invest in a high-quality cable and monitor with a fast refresh rate and low input lag.
How do I set up and configure a second monitor on my iMac?
To set up and configure a second monitor on your iMac, you need to follow a few simple steps. First, connect the second monitor to your iMac using the appropriate cable. Next, go to the "System Preferences" option in the Apple menu and select "Displays." From there, you should see both monitors listed, and you can arrange them according to your preference by dragging them around on the screen.
You can also adjust the resolution and other settings for each monitor individually, such as the brightness or color settings. If you want to use the second monitor as an extension of your iMac display, you can select the "Arrangement" tab and check the box that says "Mirror Displays."
Overall, setting up and configuring a second monitor on your iMac is a simple process that can greatly enhance your productivity and multitasking abilities. Just make sure to choose a high-quality monitor that is compatible with your iMac, and you'll be up and running in no time.
What are the recommended specs for a second monitor to use with an iMac?
When it comes to choosing a second monitor to use with your iMac, there are a few recommended specs to consider. Firstly, you should ensure that the monitor has a resolution that is compatible with your iMac. A resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels is typically recommended for a second monitor, as it will provide a clear and sharp image.
In terms of size, a monitor with a diagonal screen size of 27 inches or less is typically recommended, as this will provide a good balance between screen real estate and desk space.
You should also consider the connectivity options of the monitor, as you will need to ensure that it has the correct ports to connect to your iMac. Most monitors will have HDMI or DisplayPort connections, which are compatible with most iMacs.
Finally, if you plan to use your second monitor for tasks such as photo or video editing, you may want to consider a monitor with a high color accuracy and wide color gamut, which will provide a more accurate representation of colors. Overall, when choosing a second monitor for your iMac, it's important to consider your specific needs and requirements to ensure that you choose a monitor that will meet your needs and provide a seamless experience.
What is the best way to connect a second monitor to an iMac?
The best way to connect a second monitor to an iMac depends on the model of your iMac and the type of monitor you want to connect. If your iMac has a Thunderbolt 3 port, you can connect a second monitor using a Thunderbolt 3 cable or an adapter that supports Thunderbolt 3. If your iMac has a Mini DisplayPort, you can connect a second monitor using a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter or a Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter.
If you want to connect a monitor that uses HDMI or VGA, you can use a Thunderbolt 3 to HDMI or VGA adapter. Alternatively, you can use a USB-C to HDMI or VGA adapter if your iMac has a USB-C port. Another option is to use an external dock that connects to your iMac via Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C, and provides multiple ports for connecting monitors and other peripherals.
Once you have connected your second monitor to your iMac, you can configure the display settings in System Preferences to extend your desktop or mirror your displays. You can also arrange the position of your displays and adjust the resolution and scaling to optimize your workflow.