Apple announced the new, redesigned 13.6” MacBook Air with the latest M2 processor at its WWDC event on June 6, 2022. In addition, the Cupertino tech giant introduced an updated 13” MacBook Pro with an M2 chipset at the same event. The latest M2 MacBook Air is a faster, thinner, and lighter Apple Notebook that strikes a perfect balance between good looks and impressive performance. Interestingly, MagSafe also marks a comeback with the 2022 MacBook Air. Therefore, in addition to two Thunderbolt/USB 4 Ports and an audio jack, there’s an easy-to-connect, dedicated charging port with MagSafe support. This leaves the Thunderbolt ports free so that you can connect additional accessories like an SSD, a docking station, or an external display.
Everything is great with the latest MacBook Air M2. Having said that, we cannot escape the fact that sometimes we need a bigger display for video editing, coding, tracking charts, gaming, entertainment, or other intensive tasks. In such cases, you would need an external monitor for your MacBook Air M2.
We completely understand that it can be quite challenging to pick the best display for M2 Macs. But, you need not worry as we’re here to help you make better decisions. We’ve listed some important factors that will help you pick the best external monitors for the M2 MacBook Air in 2023. Also, we’ll walk you through the best 4K, 5K, 6K,
curved, ultrawide, and budget Mac M2 monitors that will surely fulfill all your requirements. Moreover, if you need the best display for video editing, coding, productivity, photo editing, graphic designing, gaming, or any other specific task, we’ve curated some amazing options for you.
Without any further ado, let’s get started with our guide on the best external monitors for MacBook Air M2.
Also Read: M2 vs M1: Should you upgrade?
How to pick the best external monitors for the M2 MacBook Air?
1. Screen Size
One of the most important factors that you need to consider while buying the best monitors for the M2 MacBook Air is the size. Today, you’ll find monitors in different sizes ranging from 24″ to 55″. If you’re wondering what’s the best monitor size for a 13.6” MacBook Air 2022, then let me tell you that there’s no perfect size as such. The ideal screen size depends upon your usage, workflow and available desk space. If you’ve got limited desk space, go for 27” to 32″ monitors. You can easily find feature-packed options in this range. On the flip side, if you’re a programmer, designer, or developer who needs expanded screen space to work with a lot of data or run multiple programs at the same time, you can go for ultra-wide monitors.
Additionally, if the idea of playing games or watching movies on a big screen excites you, ultrawide monitors are simply your thing.
2. Resolution
Now, let’s talk about the display resolution. If you’re looking for a secondary display for MacBook Air M2 for casual use like working on
Google Docs, browsing spreadsheets, or handling small projects, we would recommend you to choose a monitor with a QHD resolution. It will offer crisp images and sharp text.
On the flip side, if you’re a video or photo editor, content creator, or graphics designer, you can obviously go for 4K or higher resolutions based on your work requirements. Also, if you want to go for an ultrawide monitor for the M2 MacBook Air, look for displays with 3440×1440 or higher resolutions. These monitors will give you more clarity and details. Whereas, the lower resolution monitors will hold you back from reaping the full benefits of the ultrawide aspect ratio and the display panel. In the case of ultrawide monitors, resolutions are usually depicted in WQHD or WQHD+, etc.
3. Connectivity options
When you’re planning to buy an external display for your M2 MacBook Air, make sure to look at the number and types of ports offered by that model. Firstly, as the MacBook Air M2 is equipped only with Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports (and of course, the MagSafe port for charging), you need to grab a monitor that packs at least one USB-C or Thunderbolt port.
Today, the latest monitors usually come with one or two HDMI ports to connect to gaming consoles like PlayStation. In addition, you’ll find plenty of monitors that pack DisplayPort and USB 3.0 ports. Moreover, some external monitors for M2 Macs also pack niceties like audio in/out ports or headphone jacks built into the monitor. It’s a great idea to get yourself a monitor that packs all the essential ports of connectivity. It will allow you to connect several external accessories like hard drives, keyboards, gaming consoles, and more without the need for any extra adapters or dongles. This way you don’t have to deal with those annoying cables and can enjoy a clean workstation.
4. Compatibility
Compatibility is one of the most crucial factors that you must consider while buying an external monitor for your MacBook Air M2. While you can easily find a feature-packed monitor with top-of-the-line specifications, make sure to look for the options that are compatible with Apple Silicon Macs. It’s worth mentioning that all the models mentioned in this article are compatible with the latest M2 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. Additionally, you can connect them with your M1 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, M1 Mac mini, and M1 iMacs. They are also compatible with Windows laptops like the Dell XPS and Surface laptops.
5. Color Accuracy, Panel Type & more
To experience the best visuals with incredible details and realistic colors, make sure to check out the color accuracy of a monitor. Besides, when you’re looking for an external monitor for your MacBook Air M2 that itself packs a stunning display, you must go for a color-accurate monitor. For this, look for the options that cover as much of the sRGB color gamut as possible.
Talking about the color gamut, it refers to the range of displayable colors. A monitor that has more color gamut coverage can represent a wider range of colors accurately. There are several color spaces, including sRGB, AdobeRGB, NTSC, and DCI-P3 color. For reference, the AdobeRGB color space represents a wider range of colors than the sRGB.
If you’re a content creator or graphics designer who’s looking for the best 4K monitors for the M2 MacBook Air, you must go for displays with a higher percentage of the color gamut. We would recommend going for monitors that cover at least 99% or 100% sRGB color gamut. This is fairly good color accuracy. Make sure you don’t settle for less. If you’re a photographer or a professional content creator, you can go for monitors that offer wider AdobeRGB or NTSC color gamut coverage like the BenQ 3212C and Philips 34” Monitor that we’ve mentioned below.
Additionally, when you’re planning to buy an external monitor for your M2 MacBook Air, make sure to have a look at the display type. You’ll commonly find LCD, LED, and IPS panels. Having said that, when it comes to video editing, gaming, photo editing, or any kind of daily task, IPS panels are the best choice over the others. This is because IPS panels offer greater image quality, good response time, and a high refresh rate, without costing you a fortune. Today, most monitors available in the market sport IPS displays.
While we’re here, let’s talk about another important thing. If you need the best monitors for content creation or video editing on your M2 Macs, you should go for the ones with good brightness and contrast ratios. Ideally, if a monitor can reach up to 350cd/m² or 350 nits, it’s good to go. Coming to the contrast ratio,
it is the ratio between the luminance of the brightest white and the darkest black that a monitor can produce. When you’re planning to buy an external monitor, go for the models with a higher contrast ratio. Such monitors can produce deeper blacks, which improves the overall picture quality.
6. Price and Warranty
Finally, coming to one of the most or let’s say the most important factor- Price. If you need an external monitor for MacBook Air M2 for causal use or non-heavy tasks like attending video conference calls, checking documents, or working on smaller projects, you can go for a mid-ranger (around $600). Also, if you need a second display for your M2 MacBook Air
for watching movies or letting your kids watch cartoons, there’s no point to splurge a thousand dollars on a monitor. Fortunately, you can also find some feature-packed ultrawide monitors (non-curved) at a budget-friendly price like the Philips 34” Frameless IPS Monitor that we’ve mentioned below.
On the flip side, if you’re into coding, programming, & video editing and need the best 4K monitor for M2 Macs, you can go for premium options like Dell Ultrasharp 27” 4K monitor or LG UltraFine 5K monitor. This will cost you more, but these models are loaded with features and high-end specs to take your productivity and creativity a notch higher.
The simple rule to buying the best monitor for MacBook Air M2 is to figure out your usage, and what features you need, and then go for the one that best suits your requirements and pocket.
Apart from the price, you should also have a look at the warranty offered by the monitor. You’ll easily find manufacturers offering a three or even four-year warranty on their products. This will keep your purchases secured. You’ll have peace of mind that you won’t have to pay a hefty amount in case anything goes wrong with your investment.
7. Other features
Apart from the factors listed above, here are some more aspects that can help you buy the best external display for your M2 MacBook Air. Today, you’ll easily find monitors with Eye-Care, flicker-free technology, or a blue light filter that reduces eye strain. It will allow you to work comfortably for a long time without any fatigue.
In addition, you must go for a monitor that has a stable, solid, and adjustable stand. It will help you to make the height, tilt, and other adjustments to achieve the most comfortable working experience. Next, when you’re buying a Mac M2 monitor for your office, you might want to mount it for presentations or conferences or even for expandability and maneuverability. In such a case, you should go for monitors with mounting capabilities. Specifically, look for monitors that comply with VESA standards.
Note: We update our article from time to time to cover the latest products available in the market.
List of the Best Monitors for M2 MacBook Air in 2023
1. LG 40WP95C Ultrawide 5K2K Monitor (Best Thunderbolt 4 Monitor for MacBook Air 2023)
Screen size: 40-inches
Resolution: 5120 x 2160
Color Accuracy: 98% DCI-P3 color gamut
Connectivity options: Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, DP, USB
For all the professional filmmakers, content creators, and power users who want to grab the best Thunderbolt monitor for the M2 MacBook Air in 2023, we’ve handpicked a gem for you. The LG Ultrawide Curved Monitor for M2 Macs boasts a fairly large 40-inch IPS Display with an uncommon 5K2K resolution (5120 x 2160 pixels). In simpler terms, this display offers the same height as the 4K display but comes with 33% more horizontal screen space. Therefore, you can open and work on multiple apps simultaneously without having to switch between different windows. This expanded real estate offers great help in graphic designing or image editing tasks or 3D modelling where you can see more of your project and use multiple drawing fields that are placed side-by-side. Therefore, if you often feel the need for a dual-monitor setup, trust me, this is a more convenient replacement.
Thanks to the 98% DCI-P3 color space coverage, this 5K monitor for the 2023 M2 MacBook Air delivers life-like color to take your photo editing, video editing, and other color-critical tasks to a whole new level. Moreover, when it comes to connectivity, it’s just hard to beat this MacBook Air 2022 monitor. There are two Thunderbolt 4 ports so you can connect any modern accessory, including the most powerful hubs & docks without any issues. Even better, the TB4 can revive your connected MacBook at up to 96W so you always have a powered-up workstation. Additionally, the TB4 and DP ports support a daisy-chain setup so you can connect two displays for enhanced productivity. What’s more? There are in-built dual 10W speaker drivers that deliver rich bass so you can always relax in between those super-long projects and enjoy your favorite tracks.
All in all, if you need a high-end Thunderbolt monitor for the M2 MacBook Air 2022, this one is a no-brainer.
Pros
- Thunderbolt 4 port offers up to 96W PD charging support
- Supports 5K Daisy Chaining
- Ambient light sensor for auto brightness
- AMD FreeSync, Dynamic Action Sync, & Black Stabilizer support
- Dual 10W speakers offer rich bass
Cons
- Comes with an expensive price tag
Also Read: Best Accessories for M2 MacBook Air & MacBook Pro
2. Dell U2723QE Ultrasharp 4K Monitor (An All-rounder)
Screen size: 27-inches
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Color Accuracy: 100% Rec 709, 100% sRGB, 98% DCI-P3 color gamut
Connectivity options: Audio line, USB-C, DP, HDMI
If you’re a video editor or content creator who’s in search of the best monitor for the 15-inch MacBook Air in 2023 that offers eye-candy visuals and can handle all your work demands, you just can’t miss this. One of the prime highlights of the Dell monitor for MacBook Air 2022 is the fact that it features a stunning 27-inch screen that looks similar to the Apple Studio Display, with a 4K resolution instead of 5K. Now, it doesn’t mean this external display for the M2 MacBook Air lags anywhere in the picture quality. It produces crisp visuals with excellent clarity and contrast. Additionally, it supports a response time of 5ms which makes it suitable for fast-paced action, sports, and light gaming. Moreover, the Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture modes help notch up your productivity whereas the KVM switch lets you control two devices with the same keyboard and mouse.
Moving on, there’s a built-in USB-C hub so power users and multitaskers can connect & work with external accessories. So, right from ultra-fast SSDs to powerful docking stations, you can connect any USB-C accessory without the need for extra adapters/dongles. This feature-rich 4K monitor for 2023 MacBook Air M2 rocks a sleek design paired with an adjustable stand that gives you the freedom to make required adjustments and set up a comfortable workstation. Moreover, with embedded ComfortView technology and a Blue Light filter, you can work for longer hours without any eye fatigue.
Pros
- Sleek and borderless design
- USB-C port with 90W PD port
- PBP & PIP modes for multitasking
- Integrated KVM Switch
- Blue Light filter ensures a comfortable working experience
Cons
- None
Also Read: Best Sleeves for M2 MacBook Air
3. Gigabyte M32U (Best 32-inch Monitor for MacBook Air M2)
Screen size: 32-inch
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: 90% DCI-P3 and 123% sRGB color space
Connectivity options: USB-C, DisplayPort, HDMI 2.1, USB 3.0
Wondering what is the best monitor to use with your 15-inch M2 MacBook Air? The Gigabyte M32U is the answer. It is the best 32-inch monitor for MacBook Air M2 that you can buy in 2023. The M32U is pretty similar to Gigabyte M28U but the larger model has improved ergonomics and response time, making it more versatile to back a variety of tasks.
The monitor sports a large and high-resolution screen that gives you a nice room to incorporate your multitasking needs and delivers excellent text clarity. Therefore, developers can run large chunks of their Swift programming codes and multitaskers can work on multiple inputs without jumping back & forth between the windows. This 4K monitor for 2023 MacBook Air M2 is also packed with a few extra features that are
especially geared toward productivity. There’s a built-in KVM Switch that lets you control two computers from one keyboard, monitor, and mouse. It’s a great feature for users who use personal and work machines together. You can easily switch between multiple PCs for cost & space saving and enjoy better work efficiency.
Moving on, the monitor has great grey uniformity, wide viewing angles, good high peak brightness levels, and decent reflection handling. It makes the M32U, one of the best external monitors for M2 MacBook Air users who often work in bright lighting conditions. The display reduces glare you can easily see the screen contents without any problems. Impressively, this monitor for the M2 MacBook Air isn’t just limited to professional use. In fact, it is one of the best
HDMI 2.1 monitors that you can buy right now. Thanks to the support for 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and AMD FreeSync technology, this monitor is a fantastic option for console gamers. You can take full advantage of high-end features offered by modern consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X.
All in all, if you need the best 32-inch 4K monitor for a 15-inch MacBook Air M2 that’s suitable for a variety of tasks, this one is a superb option.
Pros
- Excellent text clarity
- Ergonomic design
- VESA mount compatible
- Blue light reduction
- Two HDMI 2.1 ports to connect the latest gaming consoles
- The built-in KVM switch lets you connect and control multiple devices
Cons
- Low contrast ratio
Also Read: How to fix MacBook not connecting to Wi-Fi or Internet problems
4. LG UltraFine 5K (Best 5K monitor for M2 MacBook Air)
Screen size: 27-inch
Resolution: 5K (5120×2880)
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: DCI-P3 99% Color Gamut
Connectivity options: Thunderbolt and USB-C ports
For all the users out there who’re looking for the best 5K monitor for 15-inch MacBook Pro M2, the LG UltraFine 5K Display is made just for you. It features a similar 27-inch screen to that of Apple’s larger iMac with a P3 wide color gamut and 500 nits brightness. This external display for M2 Macs is a workhorse 5K monitor that delivers a perfect blend of premium specifications and macOS compatibility into a gorgeous color-rich display. It supports 5120×2880 resolutions at up to 60Hz refresh rate to produce brilliant picture quality with bright colors and high contrast. This 5K monitor for 2022 Apple-Silicon Macs is equipped with a
Thunderbolt 3 port that connects with your M2 MacBook Air and three USB-C ports offer 5Gbps downstream for external devices. In addition, you can easily adjust the display up and down to achieve the most comfortable viewing angle.
In short, this external monitor for MacBook Air M2 doesn’t make any compromises on the specifications and performance.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the LG UltraFine 5K Display does not have that Apple aesthetics. This 5K monitor features an old-school design with thick bezels and a black base. Having said that, if you want to connect your MacBook Air M2 to a larger display at a full 5K resolution, the LG UltraFine 5K Monitor is a great pick.
Pros
- Thunderbolt 3 compatible
- 500 nits of brightness and P3 color gamut
- VESA compatible
- Up to 94W Power Delivery
- Built-in speakers
Cons
- Expensive
- Boring design
Also Read: Best USB-C Hubs and Adapters for M2 MacBook Air
5. SAMSUNG 27-inch 4K monitor for MacBook Air M2
Screen size: 27-inch
Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: ~99% sRGB
Connectivity options: HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C port
If you are looking for one of the best budget-friendly 4K monitors for MacBook Air M2, grabbing the Samsung S80A is a no-brainer. This MacBook Air M2 monitor flaunts a gorgeous 27” IPS display that comes with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. Now, that’s true 4K right there.
What makes it one of the best budget-friendly monitors for M2 MacBook Air is the fact that it comes with a 60Hz refresh rate which is good enough for daily tasks. Furthermore, it can easily stream AAA games via GeForce Now at 60fps. If you are among those who want to enjoy gaming sessions in between your work, this M2 MacBook Air monitor should get the job done. Thanks to the ~99% sRGB color space, this external monitor for MacBook Air M2 offers consistent and accurate colors. So, if you are into casual photo or video editing, this monitor will help you get your work done without any coloring issues. On top of that, the 178-degree wide viewing angle ensures that you see consistent images displayed on this 4K monitor regardless of watching it from any angle. We also like that the stand lets you adjust the height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. Plus the VESA mount compatibility lets you mount this monitor anywhere possible. Talking of connectivity, you’ll find 1x
HDMI 2.0 port, 1x DisplayPort 1.2, 1x USB-C port (with 90W Power Delivery i.e. no separate hub is needed to connect your MacBook), 3x USB 3.0 Type-A port, and a 3.5mm jack for audio output. Moreover, this monitor for MacBook Air M2 has a considerably good peak brightness of 300 nits which does the job of curbing the glare if there is some light incoming through the window. But, if you get a lot of outdoor light shining directly at the monitor, you must look for other external monitors for MacBook Air M2 with high peak brightness. Lastly, the flicker-free backlight and low-blue light filter make it one of the best external monitors for the M2 MacBook Air for anyone who is glued to the screen all day long.
In short, if you are in search of the best external displays for the MacBook Air M2 for your home office or workstation, the Samsung S80A is a worthy pick.
Pros:
- Impressive 4K clarity
- USB-C connectivity
- Built-in speakers
- Color accuracy is good
- HDR10 support
Cons:
- Limited gaming features
- Might struggle to overcome glare in extremely bright rooms
6. Dell UltraSharp U2720Q27 (Best 4K Monitor for M2 MacBook Air)
Screen size: 27-inch
Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: 99% sRGB color gamut
Connectivity ports: USB-C, USB, DisplayPort, HDMI, Audio out
Looking for the best 4K monitor for 15-inch MacBook Air M2? You just can’t miss the Dell UltraSharp 4K Monitor. It’s one of the best external monitors for M2 Macs that features a perfect blend of high-end specs, exceptional visuals, and USB-C connectivity. The monitor sports a modern and thin design with a 27-inch 4K UHD IPS display, 60Hz refresh rate, and a stunning 3840 x 2160 resolution.
The Dell UltraSharp 4K Monitor for 2023 MacBook Air M2 is designed for professional tasks like image processing and graphics designing, which makes it an ideal option for creative pros. This high-performance USB-C monitor for Apple Silicon Macs delivers flawless 4K resolution for even the most pixel-packed visuals. Therefore, whether you’re watching movies, creating 3D models, or editing an image, the Dell UltraSharp 4K Display is designed to smoothly handle them all.
On the design front, this monitor sports a sleek design with tilt, pivot, height, and swivel adjustment stand. Therefore, you can get the most comfortable viewing experience for all your tasks. Impressively, you can also use this external display for MacBook Air M2 in a vertical position. It makes it an ideal 4K monitor for M2 Mac coders who need to work with that extra vertical space. Also, there’s
a DP, an HDMI, two USB Type-C, three USB 3.0, and an Audio Line out port. Therefore, you can connect multiple devices and set up a full-fledged workstation with your M2 MacBook Air.
Pros
- Sleek and modern design
- VESA Mount Compatible
- Anti-glare display
- Nice connectivity options
- Perfect for entertainment and professional tasks
Cons
- Some users may prefer a larger display
While you’re looking for the best 4K monitor for the latest 15-inch M2 MacBook Air, make sure to check out the LG UltraFine 27UN850-W. It packs brilliant image quality, Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, seamless macOS integration, and excellent color accuracy into a premium-looking display at a very good price.
Also Read: Best Hard Drives for M2 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro
7. Samsung CJ890 and CJ791 (Best Ultrawide Monitors for M2 MacBook Air)
Screen size: 49-inches, 34-inches,
Resolution: 3840×1080, 3440×1440,
Color Accuracy: 125% sRGB color gamut (34-inches model)
Connectivity options: Thunderbolt 3, DP, HDMI, USB (34-inches), Two USB-C (49-inches)
Do you love working, watching movies, or playing games on a massive display?
Here we’ve got the best 49” ultrawide monitor for 15-inch MacBook Air M2 that’s perfect for multitasking, graphic designing, photo editing, watching movies, and business use. The Samsung CJ890 features an expansive display with an eye-popping 144Hz refresh rate and the best-in-class 32:9 aspect ratio which is equivalent to two 27-inch 16:9 monitors, but with no extra cables or disturbing bezels. The monitor is packed with the Split Screen and Picture-in-Picture modes which makes it an ideal and more productive replacement for multi-monitor setups. You can run Python scripts, Machine Learning algorithms on large data sets, track multiple applications while watching a movie, and do much more with this powerhouse. Moreover, the blazingly-fast 144Hz refresh rate prevents ghosting, blurring, and juddering. Therefore, you can easily turn your home office into a gaming space during those off-hours.
In short, the Samsung Samsung CJ890 is an ideal M2 Mac monitor for video editing, entertainment, and gaming.
Pros
- 144Hz ultra-smooth Refresh rate
- Backed by a three-year warranty
- Integrated KVM Switch
- VESA compatible
- Split-Screen and Picture-in-Picture modes
Cons
- None
Talking about the Samsung J791, it’s one of the best 34-inch Thunderbolt 3 ultrawide monitors for 15-inch MacBook Air M2. Featuring a super-stylish, nearly bezel-less design with a glossy-white rear panel that beautifully complements the aesthetics of your M2 MacBook Air. Additionally, the 34-inch display gives you enough room for your workflow while the curved angle offers an immersive experience. This external monitor for the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air packs a Thunderbolt 3 port that offers up to 40Gbps data speeds and up to 85W charging support. The Quantum Dot technology and up to 125% sRGB color space coverage work together to deliver crisp, rich, and natural colors. It makes the Samsung J791 one of the most color-accurate ultrawide monitors for M2 Macs that can display a wide range of colors with deeper blacks and brighter whites.
What’s more? This curved ultrawide monitor for the 2023 M2 MacBook Air also packs other niceties, including Picture-in-Picture & Picture-by-Picture modes, 3000:1 Contrast Ratio, 100Hz Refresh Rate, and AMD FreeSync support. Therefore, you can easily utilize it as a gaming monitor and pair your PS5, Xbox, and other consoles.
Pros
- Thunderbolt 3 compatibility
- Stylish design
- Excellent color accuracy with 125% sRGB color space coverage
- A 100Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support
- Supports Daisy Chaining
Cons
- None
Also Read: Best Ultrawide Monitors for MacBook Pro
8. BenQ PD3220U (Best M2 MacBook Air Monitor for Pro Photographers and Designers)
Screen size: 32-inch
Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: 100% sRGB and Rec. 709, 95% DCI-P3
Connectivity options: Thunderbolt/USB-C, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 3.0
Promoted as “Mac Ready”, BenQ PD3220U is undoubtedly one of the best external monitors for 13-inch MacBook Air M2 that’s worth your investment. It features a 32-inch IPS display that offers wide viewing angles, excellent image quality, and can handle up to 4K resolutions. This Thunderbolt 3 compatible monitor for M2 MacBook Air covers 100% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3 color spaces and embeds an exclusive AQcolor technology to offer exceptional color accuracy. In addition, the BenQ DesignVue Monitor supports HDR10 which allows video editors to preview their HDR content before finalizing the output.
This M2 MacBook Air monitor also offers curated modes to back your professional tasks. There are Animation and CAD/CAM modes to enhance your 3D animation and technical illustrations, respectively. In addition, the
Darkroom Mode allows you to adjust image brightness and contrast to comfortably work in dark situations. Moreover, the dual-view feature available allows you to work with two different files simultaneously on a single display. It makes the BenQ DesignVue an absolute must-have M2 Mac monitor for designers, professional content creators, and developers.
What’s more? The Flicker-free technology and Blue Light filters allow you to work comfortably during those extended hours.
All in all, if you need the best Thunderbolt 3 monitor for 15-inch MacBook Air M2 that can smartly handle all your creative needs, BenQ PD3220U is worth the investment.
Pros
- Thunderbolt 3 compatible
- Supports HDR10
- Curated modes for professional tasks
- Calman/Pantone verified
- In-built KVM Switch and Daisy Chaining support
Cons
- Expensive
Also Read: Best SSDs for M2 MacBook Air
9. LG 34WN80C-B 34” Monitor (Best Multitasking Monitor for M2 MacBook Air)
Screen size: 34-inches
Resolution: 3440 x 1440
Color Accuracy: 99% sRGB color gamut
Connectivity options: USB-C, DP, HDMI, USB
Are you looking for the best multitasking monitor for 15-inch MacBook Air M2? The LG 35WN80C-B is one of the top contenders for the best ultrawide monitors for the MacBook Air M2 that you can get in 2023. It features a 34” IPS curved ultrawide display with a nearly bezel-less design that gives you more screen space for multitasking. Therefore, programmers can easily debug and edit large chunks of code, and video editors can work with large footage and display audio plugins & effects at the same time.
This ultrawide monitor for the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air supports 99% sRGB color gamut and HDR10 for a detailed visual experience. The OnScreen Control feature offers easy and quick access to essential monitor settings like Game Mode, Screen Split, and more. The display is paired with an adjustable stand so you can easily adjust the height and tilt for a comfortable working experience in every situation. The monitor packs a USB-C port for data transfer and Power Delivery up to 60W.
In short, if you’re looking for the best ultrawide monitor for multitasking on your 15-inch MacBook Air M2, the LG 35WN80C-B is a fantastic option.
Pros
- HDR10 support
- Virtually borderless design
- USB-C port with 60W Power Delivery
- Adjustable stand
- On-Screen Control
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- None
If you need a bigger, 38-inch monitor and budget is no objection, make sure to check out LG 38WK75-C Curved Ultrawide Display.
Also Read: Best Apps for M1-powered MacBook Air and MacBook Pro
10. Apple Pro Display XDR (Best 6K Pro Monitor for M2 Macs)
Screen size: 32-inch
Resolution: 6K
Panel Type: LCD
Color Accuracy: P3 wide color gamut
Connectivity options: Thunderbolt/USB-C
If you want to stay within the Apple ecosystem without compromising on your professional and entertainment needs, Apple Display XDR is the best external monitor for the 15-inch M2 MacBook Air. Designed for pro users, Apple Studio XDR is amongst the best professional and premium monitors that you can get for your M2 Macs in 2023. It boasts a stunning 32-inch Retina display with an ultra-high-definition 6K resolution and XDR (Extreme Dynamic Range) that can easily meet the standards of creative professionals.
One of the most impressive features of this M2 MacBook Air monitor is the ability to reach up to a remarkable 1,600 nits of peak brightness. The contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1, 10-bit color depth, P3 wide color gamut, HDR, and True Tone work together to deliver the truest representation of your work with the highest-quality color possible. Also, you can easily adjust your Apple Pro Display XDR to match the requirements of HDR, digital cinema, and advanced use of photography, web development, designing, and more. Moreover, when it comes to 6K HDR video editing, Apple Studio XDR is the best external display for M2 MacBook users.
Fortunately, these high-end specifications don’t come at the cost of comfort. You can pair this color-rich display with a sturdy and stable stand (sold separately) that supports height, tilt, and pivot adjustments. Also, you can easily rotate the display in the landscape as well as portrait modes, which makes Apple Pro XDR a perfect 13-inch M2 MacBook Air monitor for coders who need to work with extra vertical space.
In short, right from premium aesthetics and seamless connectivity to outstanding color accuracy and excellent image quality, this professional display for MacBook Air M2 has it all.
Pros
- Apple’s craftsmanship
- Designed for creative professionals
- Super Wide viewing angle
- 1600 nits brightness and P3 wide color gamut
- Supports HDR, True Tone, contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1
Cons
- Expensive
- The stand would cost you an extra $1000
Also Read: How to use iPhone as a webcam on Mac with Continuity Camera
11. Asus Designo Curve MX38VC (Best USB-C M2 Mac Monitor for Editing and Gaming)
Screen size: 37.5-inch
Resolution: 3840×1600
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: sRGB 99% Color gamut
Connectivity options: USB-C, DisplayPort, HDMI, Headphone jack
If you feel 32-inch is too small and 49-inches is too big for you, how about getting a 38-inch USB-C monitor for your 15-inch MacBook Air M2? Here comes the Asus Designo Curve featuring a modern & frameless design with a 21:9 aspect ratio and a 178-degree viewing angle to offer you an expanded and more comfortable workspace. It’s a fantastic external MacBook Air M2 monitor for coding, programming, and designing. The monitor is paired with a transparent sundial base pair with a 5-way navigation key that gives a boost to your work. This professional ultrawide monitor for M2 Macs delivers exceptional color accuracy to take your photo and video editing tasks to a whole new level. Additionally, whether you want to create apps using Xcode or run Python scripts or track some trading charts, this monitor is designed to handle them all simultaneously.
Thanks to the Stereo 10W Harman Kardon speakers with ASUS SonicMaster technology, the monitor produces a crisp and spacious sound. Therefore, you can easily attend those unplanned video calls without having to search for your AirPods. The standout feature of this ultrawide monitor for the MacBook Air 2022 is the built-in 15W Qi wireless charging pad. It means you can fast-charge compatible devices by simply placing them on the base of the monitor.
What’s more? This external monitor for the M2 MacBook Air 2022 supports Bluetooth music streaming. It means you can connect your smartphone via Bluetooth and enjoy your favorite songs. Not to forget, with the 75Hz refresh rate and Adaptive-Sync technology, you can always double up the ASUS Designo Curve as a
gaming monitor for your PS5 or battle station.
All in all, for all designers, programmers, and developers who need the best ultrawide monitor for the latest 15-inch MacBook Air M2, the Asus Designo Curve is a great choice.
Pros
- Integrated 15W wireless charging pad
- Frameless and elegant design
- Curved display with 178⁰ viewing angle
- Blue Light Filter and Flicker-Free technology
- 10W Harman Kardon speakers
Cons
- No HDR support.
Also Read: Best Docking Stations for M2 MacBook Air
12. BenQ SW321C (Best Professional Photo & Video Editing Monitor for MacBook Air M2)
Screen size: 32-inches
Resolution: 4K
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: 99% Adobe RGB, 100% sRGB, and 95% P3 color spaces
Input ports: USB-C, USB, DisplayPort, HDMI, Card reader, Headphone jack
Wondering what’s the best external 15-inch MacBook Air M2 monitor for video editing? Have a look at the BenQ SW321C. It’s amongst the best premium video editing monitor for M2 MacBook Air that your money can buy. It features a 32-inch 4K HDR display that provides an expanded workspace to view and edit your photos/videos. One of the best features of BenQ SW321C is the Screen-to-Print Consistency. This 4K monitor for 13-inch MacBook Air M2 embeds a smart Paper Color Sync software and A.R.T panels to let you choose from different paper types and then shows what your final prints would look like.
When it comes to color accuracy and detailed visuals, it’s just hard to beat this professional 4K monitor for M2 Macs. With 99% Adobe RGB, 100% sRGB, and 95% P3 color spaces, BenQ SW321C delivers unmatched color accuracy. Additionally, there’s support for HLG and HDR10 which allows editors to preview the video’s HDR effect for better results. Furthermore, the monitor has a detachable shading hood that prevents light from reflecting on the screen. It offers great help when you’re editing a photo/video or finishing your designs. That’s not all. The GamutDuo feature allows the photographers to preview the same image in two different color gamuts; placed side-by-side for detailed comparisons.
Impressively, this professional monitor for the 15-inch M2 MacBook Air supports the world’s leading video calibration software, Calman and Lightspace.
All in all, BenQ SW321C is one of the best external M2 Mac monitors for content creators, photographers, and video editors.
Pros
- HDR10 support and 99% Adobe RGB color coverage for excellent color accuracy
- Paper Color Sync technology
- A detachable shading hood reduces screen glare
- USB-C port for high-speed transmission and 60W Power Delivery
Cons
- Expensive
Also Read: Best Accessories for Mac Studio
13. Philips 34” Frameless (Best Budget Ultrawide MacBook Air M2 Monitor)
Screen size: 34-inch
Resolution: 2560×1080
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: 128% sRGB color gamut, 109% NTSC
Connectivity options: USB-C, DisplayPort, HDMI, audio-out
Here comes the best 34-inch budget monitor for your 2023 MacBook Air that offers the best color accuracy for video editing, content creation, and other tasks. The Philips Frameless IPS Ultrawide Monitor makes a stunning second display for your M2 Macs that lets you experience the most vibrant colors. This Full HD budget-friendly monitor boasts a frameless design and offers expanded real estate for an immersive viewing experience.
We absolutely love this external display for the 15-inch M2 MacBook Air owing to its Ultra-wide color technology, 128% sRGB, and 109% NTSC color gamuts that produces an unrivaled picture quality. You’ll experience deeper blues, vivid reds, and natural-looking greens that make your designs look even more alive. It makes Philips Frameless IPS Monitor, an ideal ultrawide MacBook M2 monitor for graphics designing, digital content creation, and other professional tasks. Furthermore, the monitor is equipped with multiple ports of connectivity, including two HDMI, a DP, audio-out, and a USB-C port with up to 65W PD. The external monitor for the 2022 M2 MacBook Air comes with an HDMI and a USB-C to USB-C cable right in the box.
Besides being a solid display for work, the Philips Frameless Monitor makes a perfect gaming monitor with a 75Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and AMD FreeSync technology. Therefore, you can connect your favorite gaming console and easily transform your WFH setup into a battle station in no time.
In short, if you need the best budget ultrawide monitor for the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air, Philips Frameless 343E2E is hard to beat.
Pros
- Ultra-fast response time and 75Hz refresh rate
- Budget-friendly
- Picture-in-Picture mode for multitasking
- VESA compatibility
- 4-year replacement warranty
Cons
- Average build
Also Read: Best Monitors for M1 Mac mini
14. Samsung M7 Smart Monitor (Best Budget Monitor for M2 MacBook Air)
Screen size: 32-inch
Resolution: 4K
Panel Type: IPS
Connectivity options: USB-C, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB
When we talk about the best budget monitors for 15-inch MacBook Air M2, it’s just hard to beat to Samsung M7 Smart Monitor. It’s the best 4K monitors for M2 Macs that’s fused with all the essentials, performs well, and doesn’t cost you a fortune. Boasting a sleek and modern design, the Samsung M7 Monitor is a treat for minimalists who love clean setups. This external monitor for the M2 MacBook Air would fit in any Apple-centric setup with its built-in AirPlay 2. It means you can cast your MacBook Air screen to M7 wirelessly. Additionally, you can even choose to mirror your laptop display or use M7 as an external display for your M2 Mac.
There’s a Samsung Smart Hub that takes care of all your entertainment needs. It offers access to streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, and HBO without switching on your laptop. Additionally, the 21:9 aspect ratio is just perfect for watching movies, playing games, and doing professional tasks. Moreover, the remote control and built-in speakers are great for most entertainment purposes.
Putting it simply, the Samsung M7 Series is one of the best affordable monitors for MacBook Air M2 models.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Minimal and clean design
- Supports AirPlay 2
- Offers a 21:9 aspect ratio
- The Smart Hub offers access to popular entertainment apps
Cons
- Average build
In case you don’t need 4K, you can go for the Samsung M5 Series and save a few additional bucks. It’s one of the best FHD monitors that you can buy for M2 MacBook Pro and Air models.
If you need the best budget gaming monitor for 15-inch MacBook Air M2, it’s worth checking out the Acer Nitro XV27U. It features a 27-inch WQHD screen with a blazingly-fast 144Hz refresh rate, lightning-fast 1ms response time, NVIDIA G-Sync & AMD FreeSync compatibility for a top-of-the-line gaming experience.
Also Read: Best Monitors for Traders
15. LG 49WL95C-W (Best MacBook Air M2 Monitor for Productivity)
Screen size: 49-inch
Resolution: 5120 x 1440
Panel Type: IPS
Color Accuracy: sRGB 99% Color gamut
Connectivity Options: USB-C, USB, DisplayPort, HDMI
If you’re in search of the best 49” ultrawide monitor for the 15-inch MacBook Air M2, you just can’t miss the LG 49WL95C. Featuring an enormous 49-inch ultra-wide display, an incredible 32:9 aspect ratio, and a brilliant 5120 x 1440 resolution, this external monitor for the 2022 MacBook Air M2 offers expansive real estate for ultimate productivity. Therefore, whether you’re a coder, analyst, or video editor, the LG Super Ultrawide Monitors allows you to compile large chunks of code, work on large datasets, scroll through super-lengthy documents, and edit 4K videos, with much ease and convenience. In short, the LG 49WL95C USB-C Monitor is one of the top MacBook Air M2 monitors for productivity fans.
Moving further, with 99% sRGB and HDR10 support, you’ll get to experience excellent visuals with the most accurate colors while you’re creating content or polishing your designs. This makes LG49WL95C-W, a tempting option for designers, photographers, video editors, and other professionals. This external monitor for M2 Macs sports an
ergonomic design with an adjustable stand that allows you to set up a more comfortable workstation. Moreover, the monitor is fused with dedicated features for motion, sound, visuals, and content. It makes the LG Ultrawide Monitor a versatile option for a wider range of tasks. On top of it, the built-in ambient light sensor automatically adjusts the brightness for an optimal display environment.
To sum up, if you need the best super ultrawide external display for your 2020 13-inch MacBook Air, the LG 49WL95C is an excellent option.
Pros
- Supports HDR 10 and sRGB 99% Color gamut
- Ergonomic design with an adjustable stand
- 10W Dual Stereo Speakers
- Supports Picture-in-Picture mode
- Great for Multitasking and productivity
Cons
- No Thunderbolt 3 compatibility
Honorable mentions for the best 49” monitors for MacBook Air M2:
Also Read: Best 49” Ultrawide Monitors for Productivity, Entertainment, Gaming, & more
16. Asus ZenScreen (Best Portable Monitor for M2 Macs)
Screen size: 15.6-inches
Resolution: 1080p
Connectivity options: USB-C and USB-A
For all the users out there who’re searching for the best portable monitor for the M2 MacBook Air, the Asus ZenScreen is simply the best. It’s a 15.6” Full HD IPS display that packs impressive features at an affordable price. This budget monitor for MacBook Air M2 sports an ultra-slim and lightweight design, allowing you to slide the display inside a briefcase or a backpack while you’re
Asus ZenScreen is designed to deliver an ideal angle for any type of work. Therefore, whether you need to switch between horizontal and vertical orientations, this external monitor for M2 Macs is a must on your buying list. One of the standout features of the Asus ZenScreen is that it’s the world’s first portable monitor with a hybrid-signal solution. It means the monitor requires a single USB connector cable to be fully compatible with almost any laptop.
Not to forget, this USB-C monitor for the M2 MacBook Air utilizes ASUS Flicker-free technology to minimize eye strains so that you can work comfortably for long hours. Best of all, this MacBook M2 monitor works well on most devices and is Thunderbolt 3 compatible too. It comes with a ZenScreen pen and a folding smart cover that protects the display when it’s not in use.
All in all, the ASUS ZenScreen is the best Type-C portable monitor for the M2 MacBook Air in 2023.
Pros
- Thunderbolt 3 compatible
- Ultimate portability
- Works in portrait and landscape orientations
- Universal compatibility
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Up to 1080p resolution support
- Lacks in ports
If you need a portable 4K monitor for MacBook Air M2, make sure to check out the UPerfect Truly 4K Computer Monitor. It features a 100% sRGB color gamut, HDR support, built-in speakers, FreeSync, and VESA compatibility.
Also Read: Best Apps to make the most out of M2 MacBook Air & MacBook Pro
17. ARZOPA Portable Monitor for 15-inch MacBook Air M2
Highlights:
- Easy-to-carry secondary screen
- USB Type-C support allows device compatibility with multiple devices
- Eye care ensures a comfortable viewing experience
- A smart foldable case prevents scratches and two-way placement
Built-in speakers: Yes
Another solid contender for being the best external monitor for a 15-inch MacBook Air M2 is this one from ARZOPA. It is priced at $99 and is an ideal choice for almost anything on your M2 MacBook Air, except for gaming. Similar to
Asus ZenScreen, this portable monitor for M2 Mac Air also features a 15.6-inch 60Hz IPS display with a standard FullHD resolution of 1920×1080. It flaunts a slim and lightweight design and is the best fit for users who are working remotely or always on the go. Let’s not forget that it comes with HD support ensuring the expansion of contrast and colors significantly to deliver an immersive viewing experience.
On top of that, this M2 MacBook Air 15-inch external monitor ships with a smart foldable case. The case doubles up as a kickstand allowing you to place the monitor in landscape and portrait mode. Also, there are two grooves on the base of the flip case that allows you to adjust the viewing angle of the 15-inch M2 MacBook Air monitor. This makes ARZOPA Portable Monitor for 15” MacBook Air an ideal option for Netflix binge-watchers, video editors, annual report analysts, and more. Did we mention that the case also does a fine job of keeping the monitor free of scratches whenever it is carried in a bag full of stuff, say your car key, charging adapters, etc?
As far as connectivity is concerned, you’ll find a dual USB-C port and a mini HDMI port. This gives you the freedom of connecting your smartphone, M2 MacBook Air, and gaming consoles like PS5, Xbox, etc. What’s more? If you feel like listening to your favorite playlist, the two built-in speakers and 3.5mm audio jack are there for your rescue. However, the sound experience is just at par.
In short, it is one of the best budget-friendly portable monitors for 15-inch MacBook Air owners who are eagerly searching for a secondary screen for a streamlined workflow.
With this, we’ve come to the end of our guide on how to pick the best external monitor for the M2 MacBook Air. We hope you enjoyed this roundup and it has helped you pick the right monitor. Make sure to consider all the factors while choosing the best display for your M2 Macs.
Don’t miss our troubleshooting guide on how to fix common problems on M2 MacBooks.
