Latest news with #VESA
Stuff.tv
5 days ago
- Stuff.tv
The GEEKOM Mini PC IT12 2025 Edition is the best Mini PC under £500 and delivers top performance and exceptional value
Desktop PCs are great, but they're just a bit too big for those who prefer a tidy, minimal workspace. Nobody wants cables everywhere, and the sound of an enormous fan straining to cool whatever's labouring away inside the computer. The mini-PC fixes this, and GEEKOM's latest release, the GEEKOM IT12 2025 Edition, puts the concept of the mini PC into overdrive with its exceptional performance at a highly competitive pric As the world's top-performing, best-priced Intel NUC12 alternative, the GEEKOM IT12 2025 Edition i7-1280p runs powerful 12-generation Intel Core processors, making it ideal for office work, IT applications, and audio/video editing. In addition, it can run mid-to-high-end games smoothly, offering exceptional performance at a highly competitive price. The mega mini The tiny GEEKOM IT12 2025 Edition measures just 117 x 112 x 49.2 mm, barely wider than a CD and small enough to fit on the most minimal desktop setup. In the box is a VESA mount, so you can mount it on the back of a monitor and make it disappear completely, making it a more compelling choice than many all-in-one solutions, given its low price. The GEEKOM IT12 2025 Edition may be small, but it gives up nothing in power or flexibility as a result. It's well provided with ports, offering a single USB 2.0 port that's perfect for a wireless keyboard and mouse dongle, then moving up to three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports and two Type-C USB4 ports for connecting really fast peripherals such as external SSDs and cameras. Alternatively, you can plug a camera SD card directly into the built-in reader. When comes to video output, the twin HDMI 2.0 connectors mean you can easily hook up a pair of 4K monitors (with the ability to plug into 8K screens via the USB4 ports too), and it connects to the net with Wi-Fi 6E for blazing fast wireless speeds, and makes use of 3D stereoscopic antennas for stronger reception and weir coverage, meaning strong and stable wireless performance even if there are multiple walls between the machine and your router. A 2.5Gb Ethernet port is present on the back of the PC if the extra reliability of wired networking is more your thing. Built to last The high-strength metal frame of the GEEKOM IT12 2025 Edition means it's less likely to be damaged if it falls, but also has the effect of increasing the amount of electronic interference the device is capable of tolerating, making it ideal for use in environments with lots of wireless traffic. It's further protected by a UV resin coating, which helps to reduce scratches to keep it looking fresh and sleek even after long use. Inside that casing, you'll find a 12th-gen Intel Core processor – the potent i7-1280P. This 14-core chip capable of up to 4.80 GHz is capable of running office and productivity software, web browsers and cloud apps, image- and video-editing applications as well as coding, database management, web development and more. Its integrated GPU is also a highly capable gaming chip, and has no problem running titles such as League of Legends and Genshin Impact. Backing up this highly capable processor you'll find 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, all tied together by Windows 11 Pro. All this power is kept cool by a newly developed all-copper cooling system that offers better heat conduction than aluminium, with a smart fan control system for efficient dissipation of heat with minimal noise. Whatever you're doing, whether it's video editing or programming, you'll get smooth performance without thermal throttling. Low temps, low price Perhaps the biggest strength of the GEEKOM IT12 2025 Edition is the exceptional value for money it offers. Significantly cheaper than similarly specced mini PCs from other manufacturers, the GEEKOM PC stands out as one of the best in its field for one of the most affordable prices. All GEEKOM products go through strict quality control processes, with 339 individual tests ensuring the long-term stability of the PC, as well as optimal temperature and noise levels, USB and HDMI compatibility, and wireless signal strength. GEEKOM PCs come with a three-year warranty and 24/7 after-sales support. Check out the GEEKOM IT12 2025 Edition or buy directly from Amazon – use the 15% off code: STUFFIT12. The code expires on 30 July.
The Verge
06-06-2025
- The Verge
How to wall-mount your TV (and why you probably should)
There is no better way to elevate your living room than by elevating that big TV from a stand and onto a wall. Wall-mounting a TV may seem daunting, but if your space allows it you can reclaim precious real estate on your entertainment center and help your living area feel more open and airy. It'll also have the benefit of keeping your precious TV out of reach from meddlesome children or rambunctious pets All it takes are some basic tools, a bit of labor, and a buddy to help lift larger TVs. Here's all you need to prepare yourself. Pick a wall mount TV wall mounts are a commodity item these days, so there are all kinds of similar looking models from all kinds of brands. Amazon is awash with options and even Amazon Basics sells some. The first things you want to look for are what size of TV a mount is rated for, and how much weight it can hold. Check the tech specs of your exact TV model, and make sure you're well within the mount's range. You should also double-check the VESA sizing of your TV, and ensure the wall mount is compatible. VESA mount sizes correspond to the distance between the bolt connector holes on the rear of your TV. Another important thing to consider is if the wall mount is fixed, simply tilts, or has full-motion articulation, allowing it to come off the wall. Fixed and basic tilt models may be simpler and a little sturdier, but I cannot stress enough how convenient it is to be able to pull the TV away from the wall on a tilt arm. It makes unplugging and plugging in any cables to the back of the TV so much easier. When I had a basic tilt mount for my old 70-inch TV, simply adjusting HDMI plugs in the back could be a two-person job, because we had to lift the TV off the wall in order to reach the ports. When I recently mounted a new 77-inch LG C3 OLED TV, I went with this articulating model by USX. Its claimed rating — for TVs up to 86 inches and weighing 132 pounds — was more than enough to cover my TV, which weighs less than half of that at 51.8 pounds. I wasn't familiar with USX before buying it, but I took a chance and it's been perfectly fine. I've also had positive experiences with mounts and accessories from Mount-It. Assemble your tools You'll typically need a drill, screwdriver, bubble level, stud finder, and a pencil. The wall mount may come with a basic screwdriver, hex key, or small wrenches — maybe even a small bubble level. Get set Prep the TV Wall mounts usually have two vertical bars that attach to the TV via its VESA screw holes, allowing the TV to hang on the bracket once it's mounted. These bars usually have many mounting holes, to accommodate different sizes of TVs. Lay your TV down on a flat, padded surface and mount the bars to its back according to the included instructions. Measure, measure, measure Most wall mounts come with a paper template that shows the footprint of the mounting bracket. You'll need to use this or the bracket itself to frame up where it will go. To pick out the ideal location to mount it on your wall, you'll have to account for the size of your TV and how high or low it can fit on your wall. Keep in mind that you want your TV to be about eye level, though not every space can easily accommodate the ideal height. Be sure to actually sit down where you'll be watching from and visualize where your TV should go, and try not to pull any r/TVTooHigh crimes. Find the dimensions of the TV from its tech specs and use them to measure its ideal mounting location on the wall. You'll then have to measure the distance between the top of the TV to where the vertical bars will hang on the bracket. That will give you an idea of how high you'll have to mount the bracket on the wall. Mark that height on your wall with a pencil. Now that you have an idea of where the bracket will go, grab the stud finder and map out your wall studs. Securing the bracket to a sturdy wall stud is essential when mounting heavy stuff, as drywall alone isn't strong enough to safely carry such a load. The bracket's horizontal location on the wall has a little leeway, since the TV doesn't have to hang on the exact center of the bracket. You will hopefully have a wall stud that aligns with one of the bracket's screw holes — if not, I'll explain how to deal with that in the next section. Use the bubble level to level the bracket or its template on the wall where it should go, and mark the screw holes on the wall. Mount! Mount the bracket To mount the bracket to your mapped-out spot on the wall, you'll have to drill some pilot holes for the screws. The instructions should tell you how big the pilot holes should be. The tricky part is what to do if one side of screws don't line up with a stud. You'll want to use wall anchors or toggle bolts for any screws not going into studs, because mounting a TV to just Sheetrock could likely cause it to rip out of the wall and fall. To ensure my brackets could safely hold the weight of my TV, despite not lining up with wall studs, I've used Toggler toggle bolts. (There are plenty of other brands too, and you can easily find them at hardware stores.) The sizes of the toggle bolts or anchors you'll need to use depend on the screws included with your bracket. A quick aside: toggle bolts are fantastic, and I've used them to hang things like my TV's soundbar and various shelves around my house that didn't line up with wall studs. Just be aware they require drilling a bigger-than-average pilot hole, so be sure you get your measurements spot-on. Now drill your pilot holes, put in any necessary anchors or toggle bolts, and screw the bracket to the wall. Hang the TV This is actually the easiest part, provided you have a friend to help you. But it's also one of the most stressful. Team-lift the TV up and onto the bracket. Once you hang it there's usually a small screw or similar method to lock the bottom of the vertical TV bars to the bottom of the bracket. This extra bit of security is vital, because without it your TV is just hanging on by gravity and not fully secured. If the TV is too high or too low on the bracket, you should be able to take it off and adjust the vertical bars on its rear to get it in the perfect spot. If you opted for a tilting or articulating mount, this is when you'll have to tinker with it as per the included instructions to ensure the TV is level. Also, if your TV is especially big or mounted slightly above eye level, you can tilt it downwards slightly toward you. Now enjoy that lovely TV on your wall. Okay, I know you're done and all proud of yourself (you should be), but there's an additional step you should consider to make a wall-mounted TV setup look its best: neaten up your cables. There are a variety of ways you can do this. For example, you can use cable hiders or raceways, or cut entry and exit holes in the wall behind your TV and install a cable bridge to hide the cables completely (you'll need some lengthy cables). Whether you opt for something simple or advanced, any cable management is better than just letting wires dangle and fall wherever they may. You've worked this hard to mount your TV, so why not go the extra mile and make the space look tidier?
Hindustan Times
05-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
Best touch screen computer monitor: Top 7 picks for seamless control and sleek design
Imagine a world where every tap, swipe, and pinch on your screen feels as natural as sketching a quick idea on a notepad. Touch screen monitors have revolutionised how we interact with technology, making digital experiences more intuitive and immersive than ever before. In this carefully curated list, we showcase the best touch screen computer monitors of 2025, featuring both tabletop and portable models. Whether you need a powerful desktop setup or a lightweight screen to carry with you, these monitors deliver exceptional performance and sleek designs to fit every lifestyle. The ViewSonic TD1630-3 is a compact, portable 16-inch HD touch monitor featuring a 10-point capacitive touchscreen for smooth, responsive interaction. Its SuperClear TN panel offers accurate colours and wide viewing angles, while the ergonomic stand allows flexible tilt adjustments for comfortable use in various settings. Integrated speakers and versatile connectivity (HDMI, VGA, USB) enhance usability for both work and entertainment. With blue light filter and flicker-free technology, it reduces eye strain during extended sessions. The frameless design maximises screen space, and VESA compatibility allows wall mounting. Its lightweight build and energy-saving eco-mode make it ideal for use at home, in the office, or on the go. Lightweight and portable Multiple connectivity options Lower HD resolution Limited vertical viewing angle ViewSonic (USA Brand)-TD1630-3 40.64 Cm(16) Touch Portable Monitor with10-Point Capacitive Touch | Advanced Ergonomic | 7H Hardness Screen | EyeCare | Integrated Speakers| VGA| HDMI |USB 2.0 Type B What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like the monitor's portability and responsive touch for some, but report poor resolution, audio, and inconsistent build quality. Why choose this product? Compact and easy to carry, with touch support, but issues with screen resolution, sound, and build may affect user satisfaction. The ViewSonic TD2455 is a 24-inch Full HD IPS touch monitor with 10-point projected capacitive touch, supporting advanced multitasking and smooth annotation. Its ultra-thin bezels, ergonomic dual-hinge stand, and magnetic stylus make it ideal for collaborative work, presentations, and creative tasks. The monitor supports daisy-chaining up to four screens for efficient workflows. Connectivity is robust with USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-A/B, while blue light filter and flicker-free tech ensure eye comfort. Integrated speakers and VESA compatibility round out its versatile feature set, making it suitable for modern offices and classrooms. Excellent multitasking and stylus support Wide connectivity, including USB-C Heavier than portable models Premium price ViewSonic 24 Inch FHD IPS Touch Monitor one Cable Solution USB Type-C, 10-Point in-Cell Projected Capacitive Touch, Advanced Ergonomics, Magnetic Stylus Pen, Adv DP, USB 3.1 Type- A,B,C,HDMI -TD2455 What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love the monitor's responsive touchscreen, one-cable USB-C setup, and portability. Some highlight its sleek design, but others report poor resolution, audio issues, and touch glitches. Why choose this product? Great for multitasking, portable use, and touchscreen functionality across devices, though resolution and audio quality may not meet all expectations. The ViewSonic TD1655 is a slim, portable 15.6-inch Full HD IPS touch monitor with 10-point capacitive touch for intuitive control. Its dual USB-C ports support power delivery and audio/video transfer, simplifying connectivity for laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The frameless, scratch-resistant screen and metal body ensure durability for travel and daily use. Built-in speakers provide clear audio, and compatibility with Windows, Android, Chrome, macOS, and iOS enhances versatility. The built-in kickstand allows flexible positioning, making it a great second screen for mobile professionals. Highly portable and durable Broad OS/device compatibility Smaller screen size for multitasking Limited brightness outdoors Viewsonic Portable Touch Monitor Td1655, 15.6 Inch(39.624 Cm) 1920 x 1080 pixels Led With Ips Panel, 10 Point Capacitive Touch Screen, Frameless, 2 Way Powered 60W Usb C, Dual Speakers(Metalic Silver) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the monitor's portability and touchscreen feature, though touch response, resolution, and sound quality receive mixed to negative feedback. Why choose this product? A portable option with touch support and fair value, but screen clarity, audio, and build consistency may not satisfy all users. The CAPERAVE 15.6-inch portable monitor offers a Full HD IPS touch display with 10-point capacitive support, enabling intuitive touch functionality for laptops, including MacBooks. It features HDMI and USB-C ports for versatile connectivity, and a built-in kickstand for adjustable viewing angles. The monitor is lightweight and travel-friendly, fitting easily in bags for mobile productivity. Integrated speakers provide decent sound, while blue light reduction and flicker-free tech help reduce eye strain. No additional drivers are needed, making setup simple for users on the go. Easy plug-and-play setup Sound quality is basic Glossy screen prone to reflections Sound quality is basic CAPERAVE 15.6 Inch Portable Touch Screen, FHD IPS Touch Screen with Tempered Glass, Travel Monitor with Kickstand and Speaker, HDMI USB C External Monitors for Laptop What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers are generally very satisfied with the monitor's portability, plug-and-play touch functionality, and included accessories. Why choose this product? An excellent value portable touchscreen monitor with reliable performance, a sleek build, and broad device compatibility. The Lenovo ThinkVision M14t is a 14-inch Full HD IPS portable monitor with 10-point touch and an included active pen for precision input. It's designed for mobile professionals, offering dual USB-C ports for easy connectivity and power delivery. The slim, lightweight design and adjustable stand make it ideal for travel and flexible workspaces. With TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light certification, it minimises eye strain, while 300 nits brightness and 178° viewing angles ensure clear visuals. The monitor supports Windows, macOS, and Android, enhancing productivity on the go. Lightweight and highly portable Active pen included for precise input Smaller display area Limited port variety Lenovo Thinkvision M14T, 14 Inch (35.56 Cms) Fhd IPS 1920 x 1080 Pixelstouchscreen 300 Nits Monitor,Led, USB Port, 60Hz Refresh Rate, Active Pen with Battery, Tilt, Height Adjust Stand (Raven Black) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like the monitor's colour reproduction, portability, and ease of use, though some report issues with unreliable touch functionality. Why choose this product? Great for media, editing, and meetings with vivid colours and compact design, but touch screen performance may be inconsistent for some users. The ViewSonic TD2223 is a 22-inch Full HD IR touch monitor supporting 10-point multi-touch, operable with fingers, stylus, or gloved hands. Its anti-scratch 7H hardness screen and adjustable tilt make it suitable for kiosks, education, and retail environments. The monitor features HDMI, VGA, DVI, and USB connectivity for broad compatibility. Dual integrated speakers and VESA mount compatibility enhance usability. The IR touch technology provides accurate and responsive interaction, and the monitor supports multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux. Works with stylus and gloved hands Durable, scratch-resistant screen Bulkier than portable models IR touch less precise than capacitive ViewSonic (from USA) - TD2223 / TD2223-255.88 Cm (22) Touch Monitor 10-Point Touch| 7H Hardness | IR Touch Tech| 75Hz | Dual Speaker| USB, HDMI, DVI, VGA What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers across Europe and North America praise the monitor for its sharp image, responsive touch screen, and ease of setup. Some highlight its usefulness for smart screens, presentations, and dual-monitor setups. Why choose this product? An excellent pick for smart displays, portable setups, and media use, with good image clarity and responsive touch—though some may find it slightly pricey. The Acer UT222Q is a 21.5-inch Full HD IPS touch monitor with 10-point multi-touch support and AMD FreeSync technology for smoother visuals. Its anti-glare coating and 7H hardness glass ensure durability and comfortable viewing. The monitor features a lay-flat design and wide viewing angles, making it ideal for collaborative work or creative tasks. Connectivity includes HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, and USB, while built-in speakers and ergonomic tilt (15°–70°) add flexibility. It supports Windows 10 touch features and is suitable for both home and business use. Wide connectivity and ergonomic tilt Durable, anti-glare screen No height adjustment Heavier than portable options Acer UT222Q 21.5 Inch (54.61cm) Full HD IPS (1920 x 1080 Pixels) 10 Point Touch Monitor with AMD FreeSync Technology 75Hz Refresh Rate 4 MS Response| Display Port, HDMI Port, VGA & USB Port,Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise the monitor's touch accuracy and smooth finger response, along with vibrant and accurate colour reproduction. Why choose this product? Perfect for tasks needing touch precision and vivid visuals, making it a solid choice for creative work and interactive use. Capacitive touch screens are ideal for most users due to their high sensitivity and multi-touch support, making gestures like pinch-to-zoom smooth. Resistive screens work better if you need stylus input or use gloves, but they tend to be less responsive. Screen resolution affects image clarity and detail. Higher resolutions like Full HD or 4K provide sharper visuals, which is essential for design, gaming, or detailed work. Lower resolutions may cause pixelation and strain during extended use. It depends on your needs. Portable monitors offer flexibility for working on the go but usually have smaller screens and fewer features. Table top monitors provide larger displays and better performance but lack mobility. Choose based on your work style. Best desktop monitor in 2025: Top 10 options for work, entertainment and creativity Best monitor for productivity: Top 10 choices for students and professionals from brands like Dell, MSI, and others Best LCD computer monitors in 2025 for multitasking, sharp visuals, and smooth user experience: Top 10 monitors revealed Best LED computer monitors: Top 10 options for great visuals, wide angles, energy savings, and smooth daily performance Capacitive screens are more responsive and support multi-touch, while resistive screens work with a stylus or gloves but are less sensitive. Most touch screen monitors are compatible with Windows and Mac computers, but it's best to check the specific model's requirements. Portable monitors offer convenience and mobility but may have smaller screens and fewer features compared to table top models. Look for USB, HDMI, and DisplayPort connections to ensure compatibility with your devices. Yes, many touch screen monitors have fast response times and high resolutions suitable for gaming, but check specifications for performance details. Disclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may get some commission on purchases you make through the retailer sites links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing pitch. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend verifying details with the retailer before making a purchase.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Yahoo
ViewSonic XG275D-4K Monitor Review
The gaming monitor market is getting very interesting, with brands pushing the limits of display technology and introducing new options for high frame rates and 4K resolution. But the ViewSonic XG275D-4K monitor is doing something a bit different, and it's rather astounding. This 27-inch monitor allows users to switch between 4K resolution at 160Hz and Full HD at 320Hz with a single button press, addressing the common dilemma gamers face when choosing between visual fidelity and competitive performance. At $499.99, it positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to purchasing two separate displays for different gaming scenarios, and honestly, it is one of my favourite monitors of the year so far. Out of the box, the monitor is relatively unassuming but carries forward the ViewSonic style we've come to appreciate at CGM. The ViewSonic XG275D-4K monitor features a standard matte black chassis with minimal bezels, giving it a clean, modern appearance. ViewSonic has implemented a pragmatic stand design with a reduced footprint, creating more desk space for keyboard and mouse placement—a practical consideration for competitive gamers who need room to manoeuvre. The stand offers comprehensive adjustment options, including height adjustment up to 130 mm, bidirectional pivot, ±45 degrees of swivel, and -3 to 20 degrees of tilt. These movement ranges accommodate various sitting positions and desk setups. For those preferring alternative mounting options, the monitor includes 75×75 mm VESA compatibility, so you can wall mount the monitor or use a monitor arm to get it off your desk should you wish. The screen comes with an anti-glare hard coating (3H) that effectively minimizes reflections in bright environments. RGB lighting on the rear panel adds visual flair, similar to what we've seen on other ViewSonic gaming monitors. Thankfully, the lighting is subtle enough that it doesn't overwhelm the setup, allowing users to customize the appearance to match their gaming environment. The monitor features a 27-inch Fast IPS panel with a native 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160). But as I teased earlier, there's something special about the XG275D-4K—this display has the ability to operate in two distinct modes, which ViewSonic refers to as 'Dual Mode.' Users can select between native 4K resolution at 160Hz or Full HD (1080p) at an impressive 320Hz refresh rate. This means you can push visuals to their limit on your new GPU at 4K, then swap to 1080p to maximize frame rate in an esports title like League of Legends—something very useful for any kind of competitive play. The panel delivers a peak brightness of 300 to 350 nits (specifications vary slightly between sources), a static contrast ratio of 1,000:1, and support for HDR10. While these specifications won't match those of high-end HDR displays, they provide acceptable dynamic range for most gaming applications. I found it performed well when displaying deep blacks and bright colours in games like Doom Eternal. However, since it's an IPS display, you won't get the rich, inky blacks that OLED panels can deliver. That said, what the XG275D-4K does deliver is solid for most people's needs. Colour performance is respectable, with the panel covering 94 percent of DCI-P3, 91 percent of NTSC, and 99 percent of the sRGB colour spaces. However, I didn't find it as accurate as some of the professional screens we use at CGM. For gaming, it was more than enough, but for colour-dependent work, it wasn't quite as precise as I would personally prefer. The 10-bit colour depth—achieved via 8-bit + FRC technology—helps create smooth gradients with minimal banding, making the monitor suitable for both gaming and light creative work. The ViewSonic XG275D-4K boasts a 0.5 ms MPRT (Moving Picture Response Time) and a 2 ms grey-to-grey (GtG) response time, promising minimal motion blur during fast-action sequences. The monitor supports both AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync technologies, ensuring tear-free gaming experiences regardless of graphics card preference. The monitor also includes a 24.5-inch esports setting, which scales down the usable display area to provide a more focused field of view. This allows competitive gamers to keep all on-screen action within their immediate vision, potentially improving reaction times in fast-paced games. I was surprised by how interesting I found this mode. While it's not a feature I think most average gamers will take advantage of, it's a great addition, and I have to commend ViewSonic for the foresight to include it. I have to say, there are plenty of reasons to consider this monitor—and they go well beyond just gaming. The central selling point of the ViewSonic XG275D-4K monitor is its switchable refresh rate technology, but how you use that flexibility is what makes it so exciting. With a dedicated button press, users can toggle between 4K at 160Hz or Full HD at 320Hz. This functionality eliminates the previous need for gamers to purchase separate monitors for different types of games. Even content creators can jump between the modes without requiring additional displays. And because it's so easy to activate, it's a feature that can actually be used whenever you need it. In 320Hz mode, the display becomes particularly suitable for competitive gaming genres like first-person shooters, where fluid motion and reduced input lag can provide a competitive edge. Switching to 4K mode at 160Hz offers the sharp, detailed image quality that enhances visually rich single-player games and content creation. A DisplayPort 1.4 input provides similar capabilities for PC connections. One particularly useful addition is the USB-C port with 65-watt power delivery and DisplayPort Alt Mode support. This allows users to connect and charge laptops or other compatible devices while using the monitor, reducing cable clutter for those who switch between work and gaming on different devices. Audio capabilities include dual 2W stereo speakers and a 3.5 mm audio jack for headphone connection. While the built-in speakers won't replace dedicated audio equipment, they offer a convenient option for casual use. For those who prefer a clean desk setup with minimal cables, the built-in speakers will work in a pinch. However, they are a bit quiet and lack the depth to deliver a nuanced audio experience. For anyone serious about gaming or PC audio, I would always recommend treating the monitor's speakers as a last resort. As with most ViewSonic monitors, the on-screen display is navigated via a joystick control with directional inputs (up, right, down, left, centre/power), which is typically more intuitive than the multi-button configurations found on some competing models. Physical controls also include a dedicated dual-mode button for quickly switching between refresh rate and resolution presets. It worked as expected—nothing to write home about. That said, when it came to changing settings, I have to say it delivered where it needed to. It felt responsive and didn't cause any frustration when I needed to make quick adjustments. At $499.99, the ViewSonic XG275D-4K occupies the mid-range of gaming monitors. This pricing is particularly competitive, considering users effectively receive two display configurations in one unit—a 4K panel for content consumption and detail-oriented games, and a high-refresh Full HD monitor for competitive gaming. You'd be hard-pressed to find another monitor at this price point that delivers the same range of features. And while I would have liked to see a slightly higher peak brightness, the XG275D-4K delivers where it counts most for its intended purpose. For gamers who enjoy a variety of titles—from fast-paced competitive shooters to visually rich single-player adventures—the ViewSonic XG275D-4K offers a flexible solution without requiring multiple specialized displays. At $499.99, the ViewSonic XG275D-4K provides fantastic value for anyone looking to upgrade their setup while staying budget-conscious. The feature set on offer makes it one of the best monitors you can buy for the price, hands down.
Digital Trends
14-05-2025
- Digital Trends
Apple Pro Display XDR monitor review: the best Mac monitor will cost you
Apple Pro Display XDR MSRP $6,988.00 Score Details 'The Apple Pro Display XDR blazes with the ultimate in HDR, at a price.' Pros Spectacularly luxurious design The best build quality in a monitor Superior HDR support Extremely accurate image fidelity Wide viewing angles Perfect macOS integration Cons Incredibly expensive Some blooming in bright images Contrast falls behind mini-LED and OLED Stand price hard to swallow Table of Contents Table of Contents Specs Design Connectivity and features Image quality – sharpness Image quality – fidelity Competition Still the best monitor for Macs, although few will buy it It might seem a little weird to review a monitor that's been on the market for over five years, but then again, it's the Apple Pro Display XDR I'm talking about. Apple hasn't been in a hurry to upgrade its monitors lately, with its only other monitor, the Studio Display, first going on sale in 2022. The primary reason I'm reviewing the Pro Display XDR is that it seems like a natural mate for Apple's most recent Macs, and I often see new Mac buyers wondering if they should buy an Apple monitor to go with it. Recommended Videos And in fact, despite their age, both monitors remain two of the best monitors made today — and both are also very expensive. The Studio Display starts at $1,599 with a simple stand, and the Pro Display XDR is even pricier at $4,999 without a stand or VESA connector. Opt for the stand and you'll spend an extra $999. Yet in a way, the Pro Display XDR, while far more expensive than most people will want to spend, could be considered the relative bargain of the two when compared to its most direct competitors. And independent of price, the Pro Display XDR is a truly spectacular monitor for anyone who might need its awesome image quality. Specs Apple Pro Display XDR Screen size 32 inches Panel type FAFD IPS Resolution 6K (6016 x 3384) Peak brightness 1,600 nits HDR HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG Contrast ratio 1,000,000:1 Response time Not defined Color gamut 1.073 billion colors (true 10-bit) Refresh rate 60Hz Curve No Speakers None Ports 1 x upstream USB-C with Thunderbolt 3 3 x downstream USB-C Adjustments 30 degrees tilt 120mm height Dimensions (HxWxD) 28.3 inches (width) x 16.2 inches (height) x 1.1 inches (depth) Weight 16.49 pounds List price $4,999+ By itself, the Pro Display XDR costs $4,999 with the standard glass. That's a lot. Opting for the nano-textured glass brings the price to $5,999. But you can't stop there. If you want to use a VESA standard mount, you can choose the VESA adapter for $199. If not, then you'll need the Pro Stand that costs a rather insane-sounding $999. That makes the most expensive Pro Dispay XDR cost $6,988. Wow. The thing is, Apple aimed the Pro Display XDR at reference-level monitors that can cost as much as $20,000 or more. In that respect, even the most expensive configuration is a relative bargain. Since its introduction in 2019, though, several other monitors have been released that challenge the Pro Display XDR in one or more metrics. At the same time, no less costly monitor can match the Pro Display XDR across the board. So whether it's egregiously expensive or relatively affordable is something I'll touch on in the competition section below. Design You might be tempted to think that a monitor released over five years ago will look dated, and you'd be wrong. The Pro Display XDR is a stunning monitor in every respect, showing off Apple's meticulous attention to detail that makes its hardware so consistently excellent. If Apple releases a new model anytime soon, I doubt that it will look very different. In fact, I hope it doesn't. First, it looks like an Apple product. With the Pro Display XDR sitting next to (or rather, over) a Mac Studio, for example, you see two distinct products that are obviously made for each other. That's pretty amazing, considering that the Mac Studio was first released almost three years after the monitor. The design has Apple's usual minimalism that somehow exudes elegance, likely due to the use of aluminum throughout with not a speck of plastic combined with Apple's usual design cohesiveness. That along makes it stand out from most other monitors. The Pro Display XDR just looks more like its design matters than the typical monitor. Look around the back and you see the same sort of 'cheese grater' effect made up of a lattice pattern machined into the aluminum. That helps dissipate heat and avoids the need for a fan, and monitors with these specifications can get hot. The construction functions to keep the monitor perfectly silent, which matches nicely with the almost perfectly-silent Mac Studio. The patter is also similar to the exterior design of the Mac Pro, meaning it matches up well with that Apple desktop as well. Second, the design is incredibly functional. My review unit came with the Pro Stand, and yes, that's a ridiculously expensive product. But, it's also incredibly well-made and works better than most stands you can buy today. It's all-metal, like the Pro Display XDR itself, and it connects to the monitor using a unique mechanism where strong magnets suck the connector into place before everything mechanically snaps together. That makes the connection feel really cool and modern in addition to being drop-dead simple. The VESA adapter connects the same way. And then the stand is incredibly smooth, raising and lowering the monitor by up to 120mm total, tilting in a 30-degree arc, and rotating between landscape and portrait with one finger while holding the monitor firmly in place. I'll note that Apple built in a rotation mechanism that requires the monitor to be at its highest point before rotating — thus avoiding the potential to knock an edge against something, which I've run into the on some other monitors. It's a nice feature. Of course, it makes for a very tall display that I couldn't even easily fit fully in a frame. Yes, $999 is a lot to spend on a stand. But this isn't your typical stand. Is that incredible design enough to justify spending almost $7,000? Almost certainly not. But, as we'll see, that's not really what you're paying for. It's just a nice perk. I'll also note that once again, I'm as impressed as always with Apple's packaging. That might seem like a trivial thing, but unpacking monitors is almost always a painful process. Most often, various parts are scattered around a Byzantine construction that requires pulling things apart and complicates putting the monitor itself together. That's just not the case with the Pro Display XDR — just like it's not the case with any of Apple's products. The box is easy to open, everything is neatly organized, the monitor is easy to take out, and as mentioned above, the method of attaching the display to the monitor is downright satisfying. And I know that boxing the monitor back up will be drop-dead simple. It's just another thing that makes you feel like you got your money's worth. Connectivity and features In terms of connectivity, the Pro Display XDR isn't nearly as functional as some other monitors. It's not meant to serve as a central hub to connect all of your various computing parts. It's not like the Dell UltraSharp 32 4K USB-C Hub monitor, which has a very long name with 'hub' literally included because, in fact, that's what it is. It includes a host of various connections along with a built-in keyboard-video-monitor (KVM) switch, and it allows you to connect multiple PCs and various peripherals without needing an external dock or hub. That's just not the Pro Display XDR. Instead, it has just four USB-C ports, one upstream Thunderbolt 3 for connecting to a PC and three downstream USB-C ports for connecting various peripherals. That's as close to a 'hub' as you'll get with this monitor. The upstream Thunderbolt 3 provides up to 96 watts of power, which is enough to keep a MacBook Pro running well enough (as long as it's not pushing an M4 Max chipset too hard). And per Apple's usual design aesthetic, the ports are flush with the back of the monitor and in a simple line. Personally, I prefer the setup, because the mini-wiring closets on some monitors are located on the bottom and are a pain to access. Another significant hardware difference between the Pro Display XDR and the Studio Display (not to mention some other monitors) is that the Studio Display has an excellent six-speaker audio system that's the best I've seen on a monitor. When I'm using it, I'm able to put away my external speakers and use the built-in audio exclusively — it's that good, something I have yet to see on another monitor. The Pro Display XDR, on the other hand, has no speakers whatsoever. It's exclusively an image-only solution, which fits its primary focus but is something to keep in mind. In terms of controls, the Pro Display XDR is exactly like the Studio Display. There are no external controls at all, and no on-screen display (OSD) like you'll find on most monitors. There's not even a power button. Everything is controlled via software running on the connected PC. And, that matters a lot, because there's no standalone utility, either. Clearly, Apple monitors are made for macOS machines, where you get a full set of software control within the standard macOS Settings. This is a monitor that is simply not a great choice for Windows users, because you lose virtually all functionality in Windows. You can't even change the brightness. In macOS settings, you'll find several options you can configure. As usual, there's Apple's True Tone, which changes the white point to match ambient lighting, and automatic brightness that also enhances the content black level. The Pro Display XDR has dual ambient light sensors, one on the front and one on the back, to ensure a precise match between the display and ambient light conditions. Most important, perhaps, are the various presets. These change the monitor's characteristics to fit specific reference workflows. The presets range from the default that utilizes the full brightness for displaying HDR content do presets for various types of video work and for photographers. Image quality – sharpness The Pro Display XDR is built around a 32-inch 16:9 panel running at a very high 6K (6016 x 3384) resolution for 218 PPI. It uses IPS LCD technology, with a full-array local dimming (FALD) backlight with 576 blue LEDs compared to the usual IPS side lighting. That means it's not quite the same as a mini-LED display that has thousands of mini-LEDs for very fine local dimming zones, but Apple utilizes several proprietary components to minimize blooming while providing extremely high sustained and peak brightness for high dynamic range (HDR) content. While there's more blooming than modern min-LED (and OLED) displays, it's still manageable in all but very dark environments. And the point of the XDR (Extreme Dynamic Range) moniker is that the Pro Display XDR provides incredibly bright and accurate display of HDR images and video. I'll start by discussing the 6K resolution, because that matters a lot when matching up to macOS PCs. Simply put, Apple has long done a great job of producing excellent text as well as sharp images, thanks to its strict approach to HiDPI (High Dots Per Inch) support. macOS is very precise with its scaling, where it wants to produce content with integer-based scaling (e.g., 2x) and not non-integer scaling (e.g., 1.5x). It assumes a base resolution for each device, and then scales the resolution to match the native resolution. On the Pro Display XDR, that means it assumes a base resolution of 3008 x 1692 which it then scales at 2x to make use of the full 6K resolution. By avoiding non-integer scaling, Retina sharpness is maintained no matter what scaling you choose to make the UI larger or smaller (all the way up to the full 6K where everything becomes very tiny). In order to get the full effect, you need both Retina-level sharpness and a usable resolution that allows for integer scaling. At 32 inches, the Pro Display XDR's 6K resolution falls in the Retina sweet spot at 218 PPI, and the 3008 x 1692 base resolution is quite usable. If the display was 4K (3840 x 2160), which is just 137 PPI, then the base resolution would be 1920 x 1080 and it wouldn't be Retina quality. It would also make the workspace feel more cramped on such a large display. But, scaling it up to something more usable like 2560 x 1440 would require 1.5x scaling, which would result in blurriness. So, the Pro Display XDR's 6K resolution is very much on purpose. The same is true with the Studio Display's 5K resolution at a screen size of 27 inches. It's why that monitor also works better with macOS machines than 4K 27-inch monitors, which would suffer from the same compromises. Image quality – fidelity Apple has taken care to produce a monitor that will display content as accurately as possible, and at the widest possible angles. The custom timing controller, synchronized pixel switch and LED modulation, and a superior polarizer combine to maximize color accuracy and minimize reflectivity. I reviewed the nano-texture glass that manages to almost eliminate reflections without hampering contrast or reducing color dynamics. If you check out the Apple Pro Display XDR white paper, you can dig into the details of the screen's design. You'll find that a tremendous amount of work was put into each of the six 'layers' that make up the display, with various techniques used to ensure optimal uniformity throughout. The result is a monitor that produces a reliable image that can be used for the most exacting reference work. That all might sound a bit like a marketing blurb, but the point is, while the Pro Display XDR is almost five years old, it remains a monitor that's laser-focused on image fidelity — something professional creators demand. To a non-creator like myself, I found the display incredibly bright, dynamic, and with very high contrast that's not quite at the level of mini-LED or OLED's inky blacks but is still excellent. It's better for watching HDR content than any other monitor I own, including a 32-inch 4K OLED monitor that's currently sitting on my desk that's not nearly as bright. Of course, I'm not this monitor's target user, and I couldn't spend that much money only for watching HDR TV shows and movies. But I would sure wish I could. However, if I was a professional creator who works with HDR content, then I would very much appreciate the superior HDR performance. And that's where the Pro Display XDR shines the most (no pun intended). When you mate the sustained 1,000-nit HDR brightness with the peak of 1,600 nits, along with all the attention to image fidelity, you get a monitor that professionals can use to do their best work. I'll mention the cheese grater venting on the back, because running HDR content at such high brightness generates a lot of heat — and these vents keep things cool without need a fan. When I used my Datacolor SpyderPro colorimeter for objective testing, I got very good results that don't necessarily blow other monitors out of the water. One reason is because the Pro Display XDR's primary advantage, as discussed at length immediately above, is about providing consistent quality across the entire display that closely matches the source as possible. A simple colorimeter test doesn't necessarily reflect everything that makes the Pro Display XDR so great. Starting with brightness, colorimeters test SDR video by default, because HDR content is by definition more sporadic and inconsistent and thus harder to measure. So, the 520 nits shown here using the default preset of 'P3-1600 nits' reflects almost exactly the 500 nits that Apple specifies for SDR video. That's similar to the mini-LED display on the MacBook Pro 16, which is only slightly brighter in SDR at 585 nits. This preset is the one that's intended for general content including HDR, so HDR content will sustain at 1,000 nits and peak at 1,600 nits. The 'P3-500 nits' is for when you will only be working with SDR content, and then the other presets, of which these are just a subset, are intended to precisely match various reference models for specific kind of work. So, the brightness is set at a particular point and can't be changed. The Pro Display XDR's contrast ratio is very good, well above the 1,000:1 to 1,500:1 ratio you'll find with most IPS displays, but it falls short of mini-LED and OLED. That's to be expected, and I suspect that whatever replaces the Pro Display XDR in Apple's lineup will be one of those technologies (if not something even more advanced like micro-LED). Color gamut support is excellent for both sRGB and DCI-P3, the latter of which will matter most to video producers. The AdobeRGB coverage is very good, but OLED is much better. It's good enough for professional creators, especially when you consider the devotion to image fidelity and consistency. The colors are also very accurate in most presets, with only the 'Digital Cinema (P3-DCI)' coming in above the 1.0 or less that's considered indistinguishable to the human eye. And Gamma is pretty much perfect in each preset. Brightness (nits) Contrast Gamut (sRGB/AdobeRGB/DCI-P3) Accuracy (DeltaE) Gamma P3-1600 nits (default) 520 4,700:1 100% / 88% / 100% 0.78 2.2 P3-500 nits 511 4,640:1 100% / 88% / 100% 0.77 2.2 HDR video – P3 101 4,600:1 100% / 89% / 100% 0.78 2.3 Digital Cinema (P3-DCI) 47 2,170:1 100% / 88% / 100% 1.49 2.2 Photography 165 3,700:1 100% / 88% / 100% 0.79 2.2 Competition When the Pro Display XDR was introduced, its high price was very easy to justify against the $20,000+ reference monitors that were its only competition. At that point, mainstream mini-LED and OLED monitors weren't common, and few monitors were introduced with such high resolutions. Today, things have changed a bit. You can get a variety of 27- and 32-inch monitors with some combination of high resolution, high brightness, deep contrast, and wide colors, including with a small variety of 5K and 6K monitors that optimally match macOS HiDPI support. The challenge is finding a monitor that offers the full package. The Dell UltraSharp U3224KB comes closest right now. It's a 31.5-inch 6K Black IPS display with 221 PPI of sharpness, so it hits the Retina sweet spot. It has superior contrast over standard IPS, although not nearly that of the Pro Display XDR, mini-LED, or OLED panels. And it has 10-bit color that's likely to be quite accurate. It also includes features that the Pro Display XDR lacks, like decent built-in speakers and a 4K webcam, with a more reasonable price of around $3,000. I will be reviewing that monitor soon, and so will be able to provide a head-to-head comparison. But the one thing the Dell monitor does not have is the Pro Display XDR's extremely bright HDR support, making it less attractive for creators who work with HDR content. There are several 5K 27-inch monitors available that will provide the right combination of size and resolution, but those are only IPS and so not great for HDR. The Asus ProArt PA32UCG is a 4K 32-inch mini-LED display that matches the Pro Display XDR's brightness, but it's not going to match up as well with macOS HiDPI support. Both Asus and LG have announced upcoming 6K 32-inch displays, with the LG UltraFine 6K also looking like an IPS Black model. All of these monitors will fall in the range of $1,000 to $3,000, making them much more affordable. The bottom line is that depending on your needs, you have (or will soon) more options in a 6K 32-inch display than were available when the Pro Display XDR was introduced. Many of them will be a lot more accessible to typical Apple users. None of them, though, will provide the same combination of resolution, image quality, and HDR support that the Pro Display XDR provides — at its very high price. Still the best monitor for Macs, although few will buy it I'm in love with the Pro Display XDR. It's the highest-quality monitor I've ever used, with a mouth-watering design that's as easy to use as it is flexible. It has gorgeous image quality, including incredibly sharp text (really important for me as a writer) in a very large display size, and it's the best HDR monitor I've ever used. Of course, it's also more expensive than I would ever spend with my own money. As much as I love it, I simply don't have $7,000 to spend. So, like most Mac users, I wouldn't buy it. But if you're a professional whose livelihood depends on your producing color-accurate work, including lots of HDR content, then that money will be well spent. And, surprisingly, it represents something of a bargain, while also integrating tightly into the macOS ecosystem.
