What is the best method to connect Samsung M8 monitor to current MacAir?
I want to get the best possible display quality.
MacBook Air (M3, 2024)
I'm not sure if Samsung M8 is a model, or a series.
If it is this specific model,
then it has two video inputs
- USB-C – for which you would use a USB-C to USB-C cable capable of carrying 4K video and at least 65W of Power Delivery power
- HDMI – for which you would use a USB-C to HDMI adapter or adapter cable
This monitor has 3840x2160 (UHD 4K) resolution and a refresh rate of 60 Hz and appears to support 10-bit-per-channel color and HDMI 2.0. If you connect via HDMI, limitations in HDMI 2.0 may force you to choose between (60 Hz, 8-bit-per-channel color) or (30 Hz, 10-bit-per-channel color), or make other tradeoffs that reduce resolution.
If you are using a hub or dock that brings out the Mac's USB-C (DIsplayPort) signal on a HDMI port, you may want to go with HDMI just because it's there. Otherwise, USB-C to USB-C would be the way to go. I think that a USB-C to USB-C connection would have the advantages of
- Charging the MacBook Air
- Making it possible to use the two USB-A hub ports on the monitor (e.g., for wired keyboards, mice, or printers)
- Avoiding the need to choose between 60 Hz or 10-bit-per-channel color.