MacBook Pro M1 stuck in 50hz

Question

There is a slight difference in refresh rate between these 2.

I use a Samsung Ultrade 34 inch that supports a 3440 x 1440 resolution.

Both laptops are connected via the USB C from the docking station, while the monitor is connected to the docking station via HDMI.

The M4 MacBook pro works fantastic with a 100hz refresh rate, while the MacBook pro M1 is locked in 50hz.

I've also tried plugging in an older Macbook pro 2017 with intel i5 processor. That laptop also outputted a 60hz via the same connection.

What could be the issue with the M1 MacBook?

Posted on Apr 12, 2025 2:51 AM

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Answer 1

I know 4k only promisses 60, but isn't the 3440 x 1440 considered lower than 4k?

Both usb-c cables are about 1m in length.

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Answer 2

I also ordered just now a thunderbolt 4 with 8k resolution, maybe somehow I get a limitation because of that cable.

The other thing is that If I plug the cable directly into the monitor and then to the laptop, I get the 100hz refresh rate.

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Answer 3

<< isn't the 3440 x 1440 considered lower than 4k? >>

No, because it still has to meet Row Timing constraints as a True 4K display. You don't get a substantial speed increase for having fewer rows.

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Answer 4

Took the best in terms of specs and the lowest in terms of length (50cm).

I guess in the end it's a problem with the laptop since again it only outputs 50hz.

Cannot really blame the dock station as the M4 gets those 100hz with no issues.

I'll try to just get used to 50hz

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Answer 5

that Dock only promises 4K at 60, and that is likely with 8 bits/color.

are all the USB-C cables ONE meter or less in length?

EXACTLY what model Samsung Ultrawide 34 inch display?

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Answer 6

<< If I plug the cable directly into the monitor and then to the laptop, I get the 100hz refresh rate. >>

That tells you the Dock (or its input cables) are limiting the refresh rate.

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Answer 7

But in that case why does the M4 mac has the 100hz refresh rate? same cable, same monitor, same dock.

The same experiment has been done with an older 2017 i5 MacBook. That one gets 60hz

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