Best way to connect MBP 2018 to external monitor?

Question

Level 1

23 points

Best way to connect MBP 2018 to external monitor?

I'm planning on using my MacBook Pro as a desktop, plugged to a 1080p screen, a wireless MagicKeyboard and a wireless Mouse.

But I'm not sure if I should use a USB-C hub or buy cables instead. I don't know if it's better to plug everything to a single USB-C port or split everything to different ports so they get more power.

Basically this are the two setups I have planned:

I have to make a decision before my MBP arrives later this month. Which one should I go for?

Also my monitor is a LG 29um68-p 29" ultrawide (2 HDMI ports, 1 Display port). Will that USB-C to DisplayPort cable work for my monitor or it isn't compatible for that "alternate mode" thing?

Which configuration will put the less amount of load on my MacBook?

I would really appreciate any help.

Posted on Apr 14, 2019 2:15 PM

Reply

Answer 1

Apr 14, 2019 2:20 PM in response to MauroPerez

Use external monitors with your Mac - Apple Support

Use your Mac notebook computer in closed-display mode with an external display - Apple Support

Get help with video issues on external displays connected to your Mac - Apple Support

Reply

Answer 2

v0iD72

Level 1

51 points

Apr 14, 2019 7:25 PM in response to MauroPerez

Personally I would recommend purchasing a USB-C to HDMI cable. They support 4K resolution and even 5K.

Plus HDMI is super handy for connecting to other devices when you are on the go! Especially with your OPTION 2 setup.

Perhaps something like this as it has a bent angle which can assist greatly when connecting lots of cables.

https://www.amazon.com/CHOETECH-Braided-Adapter-Thunderbolt-Compatible/dp/B077VPDNL7/ref=sxbs_sxwds-stvp?crid=GHKHW8UP5NR9&keywords=usb+c+to+hdmi&pd_rd_i=B077VPDNL7&pd_rd_r=5d712d93-e283-42da-a36b-f81acc9afa3a&pd_rd_w=ApXgt&pd_rd_wg=YfD7H&pf_rd_p=5c5ea0d7-2437-4d8a-88a7-ea6f32aeac11&pf_rd_r=7SHJ57F2WCB3FAH0Y9SF&qid=1555294753&s=gateway&sprefix=usb+c+to+%2Caps%2C212

As for the monitor it should work with the cable I listed above. There are other monitors on the market that have USB ports that are built in - like this one BENQ EX3501 (happens to be the one I have). They have a smaller unit as well with 144hz. Plus they connect with USB-C - so it's a win. If money is the issue what you have laid out should be ok. There are docks that you can get as well that are cases.

https://www.dockcase.com

Or others like it. Hope that helps you out!

Reply

Answer 3

Apr 14, 2019 2:57 PM in response to MauroPerez

I suspect the quality of the USB-C hub is the pivotal question.

OWC Thunderbolt Docks, Hubs, Docking Stations, and More

Reply

Answer 4

MauroPerez Author

Level 1

23 points

Apr 14, 2019 3:07 PM in response to leroydouglas

The hub is the one with the better reviews. Assuming it works well... is it better than having a USB-C to DisplayPort cable directly? Or is that kind of USB-C to DP cable most likely to show issues?

Reply

Best way to connect MBP 2018 to external monitor?

Similar questions