MBP - 3440 x 1440 External

Question

Level 1

5 points

MBP - 3440 x 1440 External

I have a current generation 15" MBP and am looking for a new external to use as a second display.

I have a ton of credit card points to redeem, and one of the available options is an Acer Predator 34" ultra wide with a native resolution of 3440 x 1440.

Will the MBP drive this fine? Any specific adapters needed? Display has a Display Port and HDMI ins, so I'm assuming a USB-C to Display Port will do the trick, but I've never attempted an ultra wide resolution as a second display, so am just looking for some assurance before pulling the trigger.

Display, for reference: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016GNX4SE/ref=psdc_1292115011_t1_B0111MRT90

Posted on Apr 23, 2017 4:31 PM

Reply

Answer 1

Best reply

tjk

Level 9

51,116 points

Apr 23, 2017 5:16 PM in response to rvanderbush

Hi,

Your MBP will drive a display up to 5120 by 2880 pixels at 60 Hz. That encompasses the resolution you're asking about, so it should work fine. Note, however, that I have not used an ultra-wide monitor such as the Acer you're looking at, so I cannot say for sure that it will work, though I see no reason why it shouldn't. Maybe someone who owns a 2016 MBP and that Acer will stop by and give you a positive answer.

Yes, an adapter such as that will work. Here's one from Monoprice with some notes:

DisplayPort Video

DisplayPort is a bit more advanced than HDMI at this point, even though the MacBook Pro only supports DisplayPort version 1.2. If your monitor supports DisplayPort, it’s best to connect directly to it using a USB-C Alternate Mode to DisplayPort cable rather than using a dock or adapter. This $35 cable from Monoprice allows the USB-C port to switch to a native DisplayPort connection, sending the raw signal to the monitor, with no additional cables needed.

This USB-C to DisplayPort cable from Monoprice ought to be the best way to connect to a DisplayPort monitor

You could also try the Monoprice Select Series USB-C to DisplayPort adapter for just $15.

It is also possible to use a USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter to connect to an HDMI display. In addition to HDMI, this adapter lets you connect a standard USB device and a USB-C charging cable to charge your MacBook Pro (but see note about HDMI above).

Reply