Apple’s Pro Display XDR, introduced in 2019, is still being sold today at the same price it launched with. No updates, no revisions. But that hasn’t stopped Apple from keeping it on the shelves, asking buyers to fork over more than $4,999 for the base model. It’s equipped with a 32-inch screen, pushing 6K resolution, and it handles HDR impressively. Yet, in 2024, it lacks several modern features, like the ProMotion refresh rate that’s become standard elsewhere in Apple’s lineup.
High-End Display, High-End Pricing
There’s no denying the Pro Display XDR is a beautiful piece of hardware—at least from a build-quality perspective. Inside, it uses 576 local dimming zones to manage brightness with precision. However, the price for the base model remains a hefty $4,999, while the nano-texture version adds even more to the cost, pushing it up to $5,999.
If you want to get the full experience with Apple’s notoriously pricey Pro Stand, you’ll be adding another $999 to your bill. There’s also a more affordable VESA mount option at $199, but the total cost is still steep. For anyone not looking to pay Apple’s full price, you might find the display much lower at certain retailers.
Unchanged for Years, But Why?
Apple’s lack of updates to its pro-grade monitors is surprising for many, especially given the rapid pace of technological advancement in displays. While rumors have circulated about potential upgrades, including a possible successor with Mini-LED technology, nothing concrete has emerged. The Pro Display XDR has remained untouched, as has its smaller sibling, the Studio Display, which hasn’t seen any changes since it launched in 2022.
Despite these stagnations, Apple’s pro customers still seem willing to pay for hardware that integrates smoothly with their Mac workflows. The Studio Display, for instance, has continued to attract buyers with its 5K resolution, even though it lacks more modern upgrades like higher refresh rates.
The Mac Pro’s Legacy of Stubbornness
Apple’s tendency to let professional hardware sit on the market without updates is nothing new. The Mac Pro was notorious for going years without receiving upgrades, with customers continuing to buy it regardless. Even the current versions of the Mac Pro and Mac Studio are starting to feel old, running on the previous generation’s M2 chip. There are rumors that new models featuring Apple’s upcoming M4 chip could arrive in the near future, but no official word has been given.
The Pro Display XDR, like many of Apple’s professional devices, is stuck in this same pattern. While it still delivers solid performance in areas like color accuracy and brightness, its lack of a high refresh rate and other features make it feel dated for many use cases. For a price that starts at $4,999, some professionals might start looking elsewhere for newer, more capable displays.
Great Apple Pro Display XDR Alternatives
Here are 4 great alternatives to the Apple Pro Display XDR with competitive specs. These alternatives offer various combinations of high resolution, color accuracy, HDR performance, and additional features, often at lower price points than the Apple Pro Display XDR. The choice between them would depend on specific needs such as resolution, color accuracy, HDR performance, and budget.
Dell UltraSharp 32 6K U3224KB
This monitor offers a 6K resolution on a 31.5-inch display with IPS Black panel technology. It features an integrated 4K HDR webcam, built-in speakers, excellent color accuracy, and multiple connectivity options. At $3,199, it’s significantly cheaper than the Pro Display XDR while offering comparable resolution and additional features
Asus PA32UCX-K
This 32-inch 4K monitor stands out with its 1152-zone mini-LED backlight, offering superior HDR performance. It supports multiple HDR formats and has excellent color accuracy. While its resolution is lower than the Pro Display XDR, its HDR capabilities are impressive. It’s priced at $4,000.
Samsung ViewFinity S9
This 27-inch 5K monitor offers HDR support, Pantone Validated color accuracy, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. It also includes smart TV features and a detachable 4K camera. At $1,599, it’s a more affordable option with high resolution and color accuracy.
Lenovo Thinkvision Creator Extreme
While not listed in the table, this monitor is mentioned in the search results as a high-end alternative. It features a 27-inch Mini-LED display with 1,152 dimming zones (twice that of the Pro Display XDR) and claims a contrast ratio of up to 1,000,000:1. This monitor is aimed at professionals who need exceptional HDR performance.
Brand and Model | Specifications | Features | Price (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Dell UltraSharp 32 6K U3224KB | 31.5″ (diagonal), 6K (6144 x 3456) resolution at 60 Hz, IPS Black panel technology, 450 cd/m² brightness, 1000:1 contrast ratio, 223 PPI. | Integrated 4K HDR webcam, built-in speakers (2 x 14 W), excellent color accuracy (99% DCI-P3, 100% sRGB and Rec 709), multiple connectivity options including HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, USB-C, and Thunderbolt 4, KVM features, adjustable height, pivot, swivel, and tilt. | 3199 |
Asus PA32UCX-K | 32 inch; 3840×2160 pixels (4K); 60 Hz; IPS; 600 cd/m² typical brightness; 1200 cd/m² max brightness; 1000:1 static contrast; 500,000:1 dynamic contrast; 5 ms response time; 10 bit; 138 PPI; HDR10 support. | Supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, 1152-zone backlight, high color accuracy with 99% DCI-P3 coverage, multiple HDR formats, extensive connectivity options (HDMI, DisplayPort). | 4000 |
Samsung ViewFinity S9 | 27-inch, 5K resolution (5120 x 2880), 600 cd/㎡ brightness, 1000:1 static contrast ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, 5ms response time. | HDR support, Pantone Validated color accuracy, Thunderbolt 4, Smart TV features, detachable 4K camera. | 1599 |
LG UltraFine 5K | 27 Inch IPS Display; 5120 x 2880 resolution; 60 Hz refresh rate; 500 cd/m² brightness; 1100:1 contrast; DCI-P3 99% color gamut; 14 ms response time. | Thunderbolt 3 port; 3 USB Type-C ports; Built-in webcam and microphone; Adjustable height and tilt; Compatible with macOS; High color accuracy with DCI-P3 99%; VESA mount compatible. | 1045.43 |
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 2:33 pm CET