At CES 2025, LG introduced an impressive new 6K monitor called the LG UltraFine 6K Display. This marks the inaugural 6K display to include Thunderbolt 5, a cutting-edge feature recently introduced by Apple in its new M4 Pro Mac mini and M4 Pro MacBook Pro models from November. While price and availability remain under wraps, LG’s teasers offer some insights.
Although technical specifications for the LG UltraFine 6K display are not fully revealed, some key details are known. It is a 6K monitor, although the precise resolution hasn’t been specified. Apple’s Pro Display XDR serves as a relevant comparison, featuring a native resolution of 6016 x 3384 pixels on a 32-inch screen, resulting in an astounding 20.4 million pixels with a density of 218 pixels-per-inch. Additionally, LG partners with Dell to create the panel for the Dell UltraSharp 6K, which provides a resolution of 6144 x 3456.
Based on its model number, 32U990A, it’s reasonable to conclude that this display measures 32 inches, aligning with the sizes of both the Pro Display XDR and the Dell UltraSharp 6K.
A key feature of the display is its Nano IPS Black panel technology. This panel offers a wide color spectrum, encompassing 99.5% of Adobe RGB and 98% of DCI-P3. Although it may not match the Pro Display XDR in terms of color precision and contrast ratios, the cost-effectiveness of the Nano IPS Black technology makes it an appealing option for consumers. By using IPS Black rather than miniLED or OLED, LG aims to keep the display affordable.
A primary query surrounding the display is its refresh rate. Will LG choose a 60Hz panel, or will the UltraFine 6K support at least 120Hz? Given the monitor’s Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, a 6K/120Hz capability seems plausible, but confirmation from LG is awaited.
Running a display with a resolution of 6016 x 3384 at 120Hz would require approximately 79.64 Gb/s of bandwidth. Thunderbolt 5 can provide up to 80Gb/s bi-directionally and 120Gb/s in one direction with bandwidth boost enabled. However, this discussion is speculatory and does not take into account technologies like Display Stream Compression. It seems likely that LG recognizes the demand for a high-resolution monitor with a higher refresh rate, making it an ideal match for Pro Motion-capable MacBooks. If priced reasonably, LG could achieve considerable sales volume.
Another critical factor is market penetration. A significant number of users may not possess Macs equipped with Thunderbolt 5. Therefore, will the monitor feature support for lower resolutions at reduced refresh rates, such as 6K60 similar to the Pro Display XDR? While this remains a possibility, further details are necessary. Nonetheless, it’s believed that LG would wish to avoid limiting its new display’s audience solely to owners of M4 Pro Macs.
Lastly, let’s explore the design of the LG UltraFine 6K. It’s truly stunning. The front showcases a remarkable symmetry, nearly devoid of bezels, creating an immersive all-screen effect. There are no logos, buttons, or other visual distractions on the display, marking a significant upgrade from the LG UltraFine 5K Display launched in 2019.
The materials used for the display are particularly interesting. While it’s unclear if it’s constructed entirely from metal, the teaser image certainly suggests it. Additionally, it features a height-adjustable stand reminiscent of the Apple Studio Display’s stand.
I am personally thrilled to discover more details — if LG manages to execute their plans effectively, they could have a genuine success on their hands. In the meantime, I invite you to share your thoughts in the comments section.
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