- Joined
- Apr 4, 2012
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- 39
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- Your Mac's Specs
- iPhone 4S iPod Nano 6th Gen MacBook Pro (2011) -OS: OS X v.10.6.8 -Processor: 2.3 GHz Intel Core i5
I'd like to upgrade my external monitor for my early 2011 MBP. I've poured through thread after thread on this and other forums and the more relevant ones are either a couple of years old or the newer ones are for people with very different needs. Below are details...
Current Hardware
MBP early 2011 13"
16GB RAM
2.3Ghz Intel Core i5
Intel HD 3000 512MB graphics (is this my graphics card???)
Current External Display
Dell UltraSharp 2209WA
- I use the DVI to Thunderbolt adaptor (is Thunderbolt synonymous with DisplayPort?).
Why I'm upgrading
No problems with the Dell - I would just like a bigger monitor for occasionally watching movies, video clips, etc from a distance. I also use a standing desk and occasionally pace around with wireless trackpad and keyboard - would be nice to see better and not strain my eyes as much.
How I use the my MBP
I tinker in amateur video editing and it also serves as my work computer.
No gaming or professional video work at this point.
What features I'd like
- 27 inch display
- DVI compatible.
- Thunderbolt compatible.
- Matte-finish would be nice but not necessary.
- IPS would be nice, but I read so many different things about IPS v LED, etc. and still open to advice.
- Open to suggestions on resolution. I think 1920x1080 will work for now because the 2560x1440 are so spendy (except for the Monoprice). As I get better at video work and learn more about contrast ratio, color gamut, resolution, and other variables I'm currently unaware of, I will pay the premium for the best.
Summary
For now, I'd like a monitor that will spare my eyes, be compatible with my MBP, and serve amateur needs for 1-2 years. I paid $179 for the Dell UltraSharp 2209WA 1 year ago and it has worked well for me. No dead pixels, etc. - I just want a bigger monitor. If I can resell it for $100 or so, I will consider that year worth it. I have the same mindset with the 27-inch upgrade.
Here is what I'm considering at this point:
1) Monoprice 27" 2560x1440: ($389)
Amazon.com : Monoprice 27" IPS-ZERO-G Slim Monitor WQHD 2560x1440 - Dual Link DVI, VGA : Computer Monitors : Computers & Accessories
2) ViewSonic VX2703MH-LED 27-Inch LED-Lit LCD Monitor: ($237)
Amazon.com: ViewSonic VX2703MH-LED 27-Inch LED-Lit LCD Monitor: Computers & Accessories
3) LG 27EA33V Black 27-Inch Widescreen LED Anti-Glare Monitor, 1080p Slim IPS-Panel: ($280)
Amazon.com: LG 27EA33V Black 27-Inch Widescreen LED Anti-Glare Monitor, 1080p Slim IPS-Panel, VGA, DVI, HDMI: Computers & Accessories
Current Hardware
MBP early 2011 13"
16GB RAM
2.3Ghz Intel Core i5
Intel HD 3000 512MB graphics (is this my graphics card???)
Current External Display
Dell UltraSharp 2209WA
- I use the DVI to Thunderbolt adaptor (is Thunderbolt synonymous with DisplayPort?).
Why I'm upgrading
No problems with the Dell - I would just like a bigger monitor for occasionally watching movies, video clips, etc from a distance. I also use a standing desk and occasionally pace around with wireless trackpad and keyboard - would be nice to see better and not strain my eyes as much.
How I use the my MBP
I tinker in amateur video editing and it also serves as my work computer.
No gaming or professional video work at this point.
What features I'd like
- 27 inch display
- DVI compatible.
- Thunderbolt compatible.
- Matte-finish would be nice but not necessary.
- IPS would be nice, but I read so many different things about IPS v LED, etc. and still open to advice.
- Open to suggestions on resolution. I think 1920x1080 will work for now because the 2560x1440 are so spendy (except for the Monoprice). As I get better at video work and learn more about contrast ratio, color gamut, resolution, and other variables I'm currently unaware of, I will pay the premium for the best.
Summary
For now, I'd like a monitor that will spare my eyes, be compatible with my MBP, and serve amateur needs for 1-2 years. I paid $179 for the Dell UltraSharp 2209WA 1 year ago and it has worked well for me. No dead pixels, etc. - I just want a bigger monitor. If I can resell it for $100 or so, I will consider that year worth it. I have the same mindset with the 27-inch upgrade.
Here is what I'm considering at this point:
1) Monoprice 27" 2560x1440: ($389)
Amazon.com : Monoprice 27" IPS-ZERO-G Slim Monitor WQHD 2560x1440 - Dual Link DVI, VGA : Computer Monitors : Computers & Accessories
2) ViewSonic VX2703MH-LED 27-Inch LED-Lit LCD Monitor: ($237)
Amazon.com: ViewSonic VX2703MH-LED 27-Inch LED-Lit LCD Monitor: Computers & Accessories
3) LG 27EA33V Black 27-Inch Widescreen LED Anti-Glare Monitor, 1080p Slim IPS-Panel: ($280)
Amazon.com: LG 27EA33V Black 27-Inch Widescreen LED Anti-Glare Monitor, 1080p Slim IPS-Panel, VGA, DVI, HDMI: Computers & Accessories