Macbook Pro (Late-2014) - Thunderbolt 2 - 4K Support @ 60Hz

I've read the information regarding the subject matter but I'm not satisfied that I have the correct information and need some clarity.


Macbook Pro 15" (Late-2014)

Model: Macbook Pro

Size: 15"

Year: Late-2014


The Problem

Using external 4K monitor @ 60Hz. HDMI port only produces 30Hz for 4K Monitor causing monitor lag. 1080p monitors will operate at 60Hz via HDMI port. According to Apple, 4K @ 60Hz works when using Thunderbolt 2 to monitor Thunderbolt 2 port. The problem is that Thunderbolt 2 monitors are discontinued and are no longer supported by Apple unless you can find a used one. If I purchased a new 4K monitor which connection configuration will produce 4K @ 60Hz.


[MBP] = Macbook Pro

[TB2] = Thunderbolt 2

[TB3] = Thunderbolt 3

[HDMI] = HDMI Port

[A] = Adapter to change connection

[M] = 4K Monitor

[DC] = Daisy Chained


Configuration 1: 1 External 4k Monitor

[MBP][TB2] to [TB2][M] = 4K @ 60HZ (NO LONGER MADE)

Configuration 2: 1 External 4k Monitor

[MBP][HDMI] to [HDMI][M] = 4K @ 30HZ

Configuration 3: 1 External 4k Monitor w/ Adapter

[MBP][TB2][A][TB3] to [TB3][M] = REQUESTING INFORMATION

Configuration 4: 2 External 4k Monitor w/ Adapter

[MBP][TB2][A][TB3] to [TB3][M] [DC] [TB3][M] = REQUESTING INFORMATION



Question 1: Can configuration #3 with using a thunderbolt 2 to thunderbolt 3 adapter work when connected to the 4K monitor via Thunderbolt 3 to product 60Hz?


Question 2: In configuration #2 can I utilize thunderbolt 2 adapter to convert it to HDMI vs using the actual HDMI port, will this achieve 60Hz?


Question 3: Does this model allow for a daisy chain of 2 monitors?


Question 4: What Happens if a Zombie bites a Vampire ?

MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid 2014), iOS 10.3.2, None.

Posted on May 29, 2017 4:08 AM

Reply
1 reply

May 30, 2017 3:21 AM in response to CypressHomeTechnology

The Apple Thunderbolt display wasn't 4K, just 2560 by 1600. You can daisy-chain two from one Thunderbolt port.


If the display has Mini DisplayPort or DisplayPort, connect it to a Thunderbolt port with a Mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort (or DisplayPort) cable. This will support 4K 60 Hz.


If the display has only HDMI, for 4K 60 Hz use a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI 2 active adapter from a Thunderbolt port.

https://www.accellcables.com/products/mini-displayport-1-2-to-hdmi-2-0-adapter

Don't use the built-in HDMI port on the computer.


4K Thunderbolt displays are rare, but if you find one, should work (with TB2 to TB3 adapter if needed). USB-C and 5K Thunderbolt displays will not work with your MacBook Pro.


You can't run two 4K displays from that MacBook Pro.

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Macbook Pro (Late-2014) - Thunderbolt 2 - 4K Support @ 60Hz

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