Can mid 2011 iMac 27'' output 2k through HDMI?

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Level 1

9 points

Can mid 2011 iMac 27'' output 2k through HDMI?

Hi all,

Long story short, I bought a 40'' 4k Samsung TV to use as an external monitor. I know my mid 2011 iMac would not be able to handle 4k output but I was hoping to get at least 2k (2560x1440) like the native 27'' resolution. However, after using the 4k Belkin mini displayport to HDMI cable, my output resolution is still capped at 1080p. Is there anything I can do to at least get 2560x1440 on my new external?

I have tried holding down option key while selecting resolution in preferences, still no luck.

This is the Belkin cable I've got from Apple Store http://www.belkin.com/us/F2CD080-Belkin/p/P-F2CD080/

Thank you very much for your support.

iMac, OS X El Capitan (10.11.2), OS X

Posted on Dec 21, 2015 4:31 PM

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Answer 1

Duane

Level 10

124,293 points

Dec 22, 2015 10:11 AM in response to Bluesummer21

The maximum external resolution for any 2011 iMac is 2560 by 1600 pixels up to a 30" display.

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Answer 2

Bluesummer21 Author

Level 1

9 points

Dec 22, 2015 12:10 PM in response to Duane

Can I get 2560x1600 through mini display port to HDMI?

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Answer 3

snoopo

Level 1

4 points

Aug 29, 2016 2:14 PM in response to Duane

Thank's a lot! I have been struggling for 4 days trying to figure out why I can't get 2K on my 43" TV when the tech.specs of my late 2011 MacBook Pro clearly listed max resolution of 2560 by 1600 pixels. Well now I finally have my answer. Thanx again.

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Answer 4

Sep 4, 2016 9:46 AM in response to Duane

Wondering if your someone can help me related to this topic. I have mid 2011 mac air. Trying to get 2k resolution out of recently purchased BenQ GW2765HT which has same resolution as a thunderbolt display. However, using HDMI only see a max 1800. Can i get the full resolution with this set up using different cables connections etc.?

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Answer 5

Dec 23, 2015 3:56 AM in response to Bluesummer21

On older Macs, it seems any HDMI connection pegs at 1920x1200.

If your TV has has a display port or DVI interface, you can connect

that way and should get max resolution of the iMac.

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Answer 6

Csound1

Level 9

60,063 points

Sep 4, 2016 9:49 AM in response to Bluesummer21

HDMI has a max resolution of 1080p you are limited by your chosen connection method, if you can connect some other way you will not be (Display Port for example)

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