Best Monitor for Macbook Pro Canada: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding the perfect external monitor for a MacBook Pro in Canada can transform your workflow, whether you’re a creative professional, a remote worker, or a student. After extensive hands-on testing and analysis, we’ve curated the definitive list of displays that complement Apple’s powerful laptops. We focused on seamless connectivity, colour accuracy, resolution, and overall value. Our top pick, the cocopar 18.5 inch 1080P 100Hz Portable Monitor, stood out for its exceptional blend of performance and portability. Its single-cable USB-C plug-and-play functionality with our MacBook Pro was flawless, and its vibrant 125% sRGB screen and smooth 100Hz refresh rate make it a versatile powerhouse for work and travel.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Monitor for Macbook Pro Canada

#1 cocopar 18.5 inch 1080P 100Hz Portable Monitor – Ideal for: Ultimate Portability & Performance

In our testing, the cocopar 18.5 inch 1080P 100Hz Portable Monitor immediately impressed us with its seamless integration into a MacBook Pro workflow. The moment we connected it via a single USB-C cable, it powered on and extended our macOS desktop without any drivers or configuration—true plug-and-play simplicity. This experience was confirmed by numerous users who highlighted the immediate connectivity with both MacBooks and Windows laptops. The 18.5-inch screen is a standout feature, offering significantly more real estate than typical portable monitors, which boosted our productivity while coding and managing spreadsheets. Despite its large size, it’s astonishingly thin and lightweight at just 1.59 pounds, fitting easily into our laptop bag. The visual quality is superb for this category; the 125% sRGB colour gamut produced vibrant, rich colours, and the 100Hz refresh rate made scrolling through documents and websites noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz screens. We also appreciated the sturdy, metal-framed build and the versatile kickstand that allows for easy angle adjustments. While the built-in speakers are serviceable for system sounds or a quick video call, they won’t replace dedicated speakers for media consumption, a minor trade-off for such a capable and portable display.

#2 HP Series 5 24″ FHD IPS 100Hz Monitor – Perfect for: Sleek and Affordable Home Office

The HP Series 5 24″ FHD IPS 100Hz Monitor is a fantastic choice for MacBook Pro users building a stylish and functional home office setup without breaking the bank. The first thing we noticed was its sleek, thin-and-light design with a silver/white finish that pairs beautifully with Apple’s aesthetic. The build quality feels solid and near-premium for its price point. During our evaluation, the IPS panel delivered excellent colour accuracy with its 99% sRGB coverage, making everyday tasks, from browsing to light photo editing, look crisp and vibrant. The 100Hz refresh rate is a welcome upgrade over standard 60Hz monitors, providing smoother scrolling and a more fluid user experience in macOS. We also found the HP Eye Ease with Eyesafe certification to be genuinely effective, reducing eye strain during long work sessions by filtering blue light without distorting colours. Many users echoed our positive sentiment, praising its great picture quality and easy plug-and-play setup. The only minor drawback we encountered, which a few users also mentioned, is the lack of USB-C connectivity, meaning you’ll need an adapter or HDMI cable to connect to a modern MacBook Pro. However, for its performance, design, and eye-comfort features, it represents incredible value.

#3 ViewSonic VX3276-MHD 32 Inch IPS Monitor – Suits: Large-Screen Multitasking on a Budget

If you’re craving expansive screen real estate for your MacBook Pro, the ViewSonic VX3276-MHD 32 Inch IPS Monitor delivers an immersive experience. We found its 32-inch Full HD display to be a multitasking dream, allowing us to have multiple windows open side-by-side with plenty of room to spare. The ultra-thin bezels and sleek design give it a modern, premium look that belies its affordable price. The SuperClear IPS panel technology provides consistent, vibrant colours and wide 178-degree viewing angles, which we found perfect for collaborating with a colleague or watching a movie from the side. Setup was a breeze using an HDMI cable, and it worked flawlessly with our MacBook Pro. Many users agreed that it’s a sexy, well-designed monitor that offers great value. A common point of praise, which we also noted, is the inclusion of Flicker-Free technology and a Blue Light Filter, making extended use more comfortable on the eyes. The primary trade-off is the 1080p resolution stretched across a 32-inch panel; text and fine details are not as sharp as they would be on a smaller or higher-resolution screen. While it’s perfectly suitable for general productivity and media consumption, those doing detailed design work might prefer a QHD or 4K display.

#4 ARZOPA S1 Table Portable Monitor 15.6″ 1080P – Ideal for: The Ultra-Light Travel Companion

For the MacBook Pro user who is constantly on the move, the ARZOPA S1 Table Portable Monitor 15.6″ 1080P is a game-changer. During our testing, what struck us most was its incredible portability. Weighing just 1.7 lbs and being only 0.3 inches thick, it’s one of the lightest and slimmest portable monitors we’ve handled, making it effortless to slip into a backpack alongside a laptop. Like our top pick, it offers true plug-and-play convenience with a single USB-C cable for both power and video, connecting instantly to our MacBook Pro. This ease of use was a major point of praise among users, many of whom highlighted how it transformed their remote work or study setup. The 15.6-inch FHD IPS screen provided a clear, bright picture that was more than adequate for extending our workspace for documents, emails, and web browsing. While we noted, as did some graphic designers, that the colours aren’t as vibrant as a MacBook’s Retina display, they are certainly good enough for general productivity. The included smart cover, which doubles as a stand, is functional and protects the screen during transit. It’s a fantastic, no-fuss solution for anyone needing a second screen without the bulk.

#5 Dell S2722DC 27-inch QHD Monitor – Perfect for: Single-Cable MacBook Pro Charging & Connectivity

The Dell S2722DC 27-inch QHD Monitor is, in our expert opinion, one of the best all-around monitors for MacBook Pro users, primarily due to its brilliant single-cable solution. The USB-C port is a powerhouse, delivering a crisp QHD video signal, handling data transfer, and providing up to 65W of power to charge our MacBook Pro simultaneously. This feature declutters the desk immensely and was a highlight for us and many other users. The 27-inch QHD (2560×1440) resolution hits the sweet spot for macOS, offering sharp text and detailed images without the need for aggressive scaling. We found the colour reproduction to be excellent, with 99% sRGB coverage making everything look vivid and accurate. The monitor’s ergonomics are top-notch; the fully adjustable stand allows for height, tilt, swivel, and even pivot adjustments, which is fantastic for finding the perfect viewing angle or for a vertical coding setup. A sentiment echoed by a user who is a software engineer by day and gamer by night. The build quality is classic Dell—solid and reliable, with a sleek platinum silver finish. While the built-in speakers are quite basic, as many users pointed out, the overall combination of resolution, single-cable convenience, and superior ergonomics makes this an outstanding productivity monitor for any MacBook Pro owner.

#6 Asus TUF VG34VQ3B 34″ Curved Gaming Monitor – Suits: Immersive Ultra-Wide Gaming and Productivity

For those who want to take their MacBook Pro setup into the realm of immersive gaming and cinematic productivity, the Asus TUF VG34VQ3B 34″ Curved Gaming Monitor is a compelling option. The 34-inch ultra-wide QHD (3440×1440) panel is simply spectacular. During our testing, the 21:9 aspect ratio was a game-changer for productivity, allowing us to have a massive timeline in Final Cut Pro while still having a large preview window. The 1500R curve gently wraps the screen around your field of view, enhancing immersion in games and movies. We were highly impressed with its gaming performance; the 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time delivered buttery-smooth visuals with virtually no motion blur. Several users confirmed that games run beautifully and the curve is perfect for immersion. Colour performance is also strong, with 90% DCI-P3 coverage providing deep, rich colours that are a step above standard sRGB monitors. Connecting to our MacBook Pro via DisplayPort was straightforward. The main consideration for Mac users is that macOS doesn’t have the same level of ultra-wide support as Windows, but for applications that do support it, the experience is phenomenal.

#7 acer Nitro ED270R 27″ FHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor – Ideal for: High Refresh Rate Gaming on a Budget

The acer Nitro ED270R 27″ FHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a smooth, high-refresh-rate experience for your MacBook Pro. While primarily marketed for gaming, we found its features translate well to everyday use. The 165Hz refresh rate makes a significant difference in perceived smoothness when scrolling, dragging windows, and using Mission Control in macOS. In our gaming tests, the 1ms response time and AMD FreeSync Premium technology combined to create a responsive, tear-free experience. This was confirmed by competitive gamers who noted the monitor delivers on its promise of responsiveness with no ghosting issues. The 1500R curve on the 27-inch panel adds a nice touch of immersion, and the ZeroFrame design is great for minimizing distractions. The main compromise here is the 1080p resolution on a 27-inch screen, which can make text appear less sharp than on a QHD or 4K panel. However, for users who prioritize motion clarity and gaming performance over pixel density, it offers exceptional value. Many users felt it was a fantastic monitor for the price, delivering great performance for both gaming and general use.

#8 Samsung LS27T350FHNXZA 27-inch 75Hz LED Monitor – Perfect for: A Minimalist, Borderless Display

The Samsung LS27T350FHNXZA 27-inch 75Hz LED Monitor is an excellent choice for MacBook Pro users who value a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Its 3-sided borderless design is the standout feature, making it look sleek on any desk and ideal for creating a nearly seamless dual-monitor setup. In our testing, the IPS panel delivered on its promise of wide viewing angles and consistent colour from any perspective. The picture quality is clear and crisp for a 1080p display, making it perfectly suitable for everyday work, browsing, and media consumption. The 75Hz refresh rate provides a subtle but welcome improvement in smoothness over older 60Hz panels. We also found the Eye-Saver Mode to be effective at reducing blue light for more comfortable viewing during late-night work sessions. Many users were very satisfied with the image quality and easy assembly for the price. However, as some pointed out, it’s a fairly basic monitor in terms of features. It lacks USB-C connectivity and has limited adjustability, only offering tilt. For users looking for a straightforward, stylish, and reliable display for general use, this Samsung monitor is a solid and affordable option.

#9 Asus ProArt PA278QV WQHD Monitor – Suits: Professional-Grade Color Accuracy

For creative professionals who demand uncompromising colour accuracy from their external display, the Asus ProArt PA278QV WQHD Monitor is an absolute standout. Right out of the box, we were impressed by its Calman Verified factory calibration, which guarantees a Delta E of less than 2. In practical terms, this means the colours you see on screen are incredibly true-to-life, a critical feature for photo editing, video grading, and graphic design. Our testing confirmed this, with the 100% sRGB and Rec. 709 coverage providing a perfect match for digital content creation. The 27-inch WQHD (2560 x 1440) resolution offers a great balance of screen space and sharpness, making detailed work in Photoshop and other creative apps a pleasure. The stand is another major highlight, offering full height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments for superior ergonomics. We also appreciated the wealth of connectivity options, including DisplayPort, HDMI, and a built-in USB 3.0 hub, which is very convenient for connecting peripherals. The built-in speakers are quite weak, a common sentiment among users, but for anyone whose work depends on colour fidelity, this monitor is an exceptional tool that punches well above its price class.

#10 Asus ProArt PA248QV 24.1″ WUXGA Monitor – Ideal for: Compact Creative Workflows

The Asus ProArt PA248QV 24.1″ WUXGA Monitor packs the professional-grade colour accuracy of its larger sibling into a more compact and unique form factor. The 16:10 aspect ratio (1920 x 1200 resolution) was a feature we immediately grew to love. That extra vertical space is surprisingly useful for reading documents, browsing websites, and fitting more layers into design software without constant scrolling. Just like the 27-inch version, this monitor is Calman Verified and comes factory-calibrated for a Delta E of less than 2, ensuring outstanding colour fidelity. We found its 100% sRGB coverage to be perfect for web design and photo editing. Many creative users praised this monitor for making their work easier thanks to its reliable calibration. The stand is robust and fully adjustable, allowing for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot—a rarity in this size and price category. Its built-in USB 3.0 hub is another convenient feature for connecting accessories directly to the monitor. While it’s not a high-refresh-rate gaming display, its 75Hz rate is perfectly smooth for creative work. For MacBook Pro users with limited desk space who still need professional-level colour performance, this monitor is an unbeatable choice.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Connectivity: For MacBook Pro users, a monitor with a USB-C or Thunderbolt port is the gold standard. It allows for a single-cable connection that can transmit video, data, and even charge your laptop, significantly reducing cable clutter. Models like the Dell S2722DC 27-inch QHD Monitor excel at this. If you opt for an HDMI or DisplayPort monitor, ensure you have the necessary adapter or dongle.
• Resolution and Size: The ideal resolution depends on the screen size. For monitors under 24 inches, Full HD (1920×1080) is sufficient. For 27-inch monitors, QHD (2560×1440) provides a sharp, clear image. For 32 inches and above, 4K (3840×2160) is recommended to maintain high pixel density and avoid visible pixels. macOS scales best with very high-density displays (4K and 5K), providing a “Retina-like” experience.
• Colour Accuracy: If your work involves photo editing, video production, or graphic design, colour accuracy is paramount. Look for monitors with high coverage of the sRGB color space (99% or more). For professional video and cinema work, coverage of the DCI-P3 gamut is important. Models like the Asus ProArt PA278QV WQHD Monitor are factory-calibrated for accuracy.
• Ergonomics: A good monitor should adapt to you, not the other way around. A high-quality stand with height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments can prevent neck and back strain. This is especially important in a home office setup where you spend many hours at your desk.

Understanding Colour Gamut: sRGB vs. P3

When matching a monitor to a MacBook Pro, understanding colour gamuts is key. A colour gamut is the range of colours a display can reproduce. The two most common standards you’ll see are sRGB and DCI-P3.

• sRGB is the standard for the web, most apps, and digital photos. A monitor with 100% sRGB coverage, like the Asus ProArt PA248QV, will display web content and photos accurately as they were intended to be seen.
• DCI-P3 is a wider colour gamut used in digital cinema and is the standard Apple uses for its recent MacBook Pro, iPhone, and iPad displays. It can show more vibrant reds and greens than sRGB. If you are a video editor or creative who needs your external monitor to perfectly match the rich colours of your MacBook’s Liquid Retina display, look for a monitor with high DCI-P3 coverage, like the Asus TUF VG34VQ3B with its 90% coverage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring USB-C Power Delivery: Buying a USB-C monitor without checking its power delivery (PD) wattage. To charge a MacBook Pro effectively while in use, you’ll want at least 60-65W of power delivery.
2. Choosing the Wrong Resolution for the Size: A common mistake is buying a large (27-inch or bigger) monitor with only a 1080p resolution. This results in a low pixel density, making text and icons look fuzzy or “pixelated” in macOS.
3. Forgetting Ergonomics: Opting for a monitor with a fixed stand to save money can lead to discomfort and strain over time. Investing in a display with an adjustable stand is a long-term investment in your health and comfort.
4. Overlooking Refresh Rate: While 60Hz is standard, a monitor with a higher refresh rate (75Hz, 100Hz, or more) will make all motion on screen, including simple scrolling and window management, feel noticeably smoother and more fluid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best monitor that can also charge a MacBook Pro via USB-C?

The best monitor on our list that also charges a MacBook Pro is the Dell S2722DC 27-inch QHD Monitor. Its USB-C port provides up to 65W of power delivery, which is sufficient to charge a 13-inch or 14-inch MacBook Pro while it’s in use. This single-cable solution for video, data, and power is incredibly convenient for creating a clean and minimalist desk setup.

How do I ensure a monitor has good colour matching with my MacBook’s Liquid Retina display?

To get the best colour match, look for a monitor that specifies high coverage of the DCI-P3 colour gamut, as this is the standard Apple uses. Monitors like the Asus ProArt PA278QV WQHD Monitor, which are factory-calibrated for colour accuracy (indicated by a low Delta E value) and cover 100% of the sRGB/Rec. 709 gamuts, are also excellent choices for professional creative work.

What resolution is best to avoid scaling issues with macOS?

macOS works best with two types of displays: standard resolution (~110 pixels per inch) or high resolution “Retina” displays (~220 PPI). A 27-inch QHD (2560×1440) monitor is a great middle ground that works well. However, for the truest Retina-like experience with perfect 2x scaling, a 27-inch 5K monitor or a 24-inch 4K monitor is ideal, though these are typically more expensive.

Are ‘Studio Display’ alternatives worth considering for a MacBook Pro setup?

Absolutely. While Apple’s Studio Display is a phenomenal monitor, it comes with a premium price tag. Alternatives like the Dell S2722DC 27-inch QHD Monitor or the Asus ProArt PA278QV WQHD Monitor offer many of the same key benefits—such as high resolution, excellent colour accuracy, and USB-C connectivity—at a fraction of the cost, making them fantastic value for most MacBook Pro users.

Do I need a 5K monitor to match the ‘Retina’ experience?

No, you don’t necessarily need a 5K monitor. A 27-inch 4K monitor provides a pixel density so high that, at a normal viewing distance, the pixels are indistinguishable to the human eye, effectively delivering a “Retina” experience. While 5K is the native resolution for perfect scaling on a 27-inch screen, a 4K display is an excellent and more affordable way to achieve super-sharp text and images with your MacBook Pro.

Which monitors have the best P3 wide colour gamut coverage for creative work?

For creative work requiring the P3 wide colour gamut, monitors designed for gaming often have excellent coverage. The Asus TUF VG34VQ3B 34″ Curved Gaming Monitor boasts 90% DCI-P3 coverage, making it a great choice for vibrant colour work. Professional creative monitors in the premium price range are the best option, but this Asus model provides a strong alternative.

What is the importance of a high-quality stand with height adjustment for a MacBook setup?

A high-quality, adjustable stand is crucial for ergonomics and comfort. It allows you to position the monitor at the correct eye level, preventing neck and shoulder strain during long work sessions. Height adjustment is the most important feature, but tilt, swivel, and pivot (for vertical orientation) are also highly beneficial. Models like the Dell S2722DC and the entire Asus ProArt line feature excellent, fully adjustable stands.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and comparison, we confidently name the cocopar 18.5 inch 1080P 100Hz Portable Monitor as the best overall monitor for most MacBook Pro users in Canada. It carves out a unique niche by delivering features typically found in separate categories into one compelling package. Its standout quality is the flawless, single-cable USB-C connectivity that instantly extends your MacBook’s display, a feature we can’t overstate the convenience of. What truly sets it apart is the combination of a large, productive 18.5-inch screen with an incredibly thin and light design. This makes it just as useful on a cramped coffee shop table as it is in a home office. The vibrant 125% sRGB panel and the smooth 100Hz refresh rate provide a viewing experience superior to almost any other portable monitor on the market. It’s this exceptional blend of performance, portability, and pure ease-of-use that makes it our top recommendation.

Last update on 2025-11-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API