Apple’s freshly unveiled M3 Macs bring cutting-edge technology to the table, but with a familiar limitation when it comes to multitasking with external displays. As per the latest specs released by Apple, the base M3 chip allows for the connection of only one external monitor, supporting resolutions up to 6K at a smooth 60Hz.
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This single-display restriction isn’t new; it’s been around since the debut of the M1-powered Macs back in 2020. However, creative users have bypassed this by using DisplayLink adapters, a workaround that isn’t officially sanctioned but has proven effective. The Mac mini, which is anticipated to receive an M3 update by next year, is expected to continue its support for dual external monitors, a necessity given its lack of an integrated screen.
On the more premium side, the MacBook Pro models with 14 and 16-inch displays are set to expand user workspace with better external display support. Equipped with the M3 Pro chip, these models can manage two external displays with up to 6K resolution at 60Hz when using Thunderbolt, or a combination of a 6K display over Thunderbolt plus a 4K display at a higher refresh rate of 144Hz over HDMI. Those opting for the highest-tier M3 Max chip can connect up to four external screens, maximizing productivity and screen real estate.
Here’s a closer look at the external display capabilities based on the chip variant:
- M3 Pro: Dual-display support with up to 6K resolution at 60Hz, plus additional flexibility with HDMI.
- M3 Max: Quadruple-display connectivity with a trio of 6K displays on Thunderbolt and an additional 4K monitor with boosted refresh rates via HDMI.
As for the cost, the entry-level MacBook Pro with the M3 Pro chip begins at €2599, featuring an 11-core CPU and a 14-core GPU, coupled with 18GB of unified memory and 512GB SSD. Prices ascend to €3099 for a model sporting a 12-core CPU, 18-core GPU, and 1TB SSD. But for those seeking the pinnacle of performance, configuring the MacBook Pro with 36GB of unified memory and a 4TB SSD can push the price over €4700, setting a new standard for portable computing power and storage capacity.