Since the introduction of Apple’s M4 Macs, more users have started reporting various unexpected issues online. A prevalent complaint centers around compatibility problems between these M4 Macs and ultrawide monitors.
M4 Macs appear to have compatibility issues with ultrawide 5K2K monitors
Numerous users on Apple Community forums, Reddit, and a DMN reader have noted that M4 Macs seem to disrupt support for certain ultrawide monitors, specifically those offering a 5K2K resolution (5120 x 2160).
Users report that M4 Macs fail to present the correct resolution options for these monitors, resulting in a blurry interface and text. These monitors function properly with previous Mac models, including both Intel and Apple Silicon variants. However, when connected to an M4 Mac, the HiDPI mode—responsible for enhancing interface sharpness—ceases to work.
While the majority of complaints on the internet are coming from Mac mini users, individuals with M4 MacBook Pro devices are also experiencing similar difficulties.
“Even though I can select the same resolution on my Mac Mini M4, HiDPI isn’t available, and it (indeed) looks worse,” shared a user who found the HiDPI option functional on their M1 MacBook Pro. “I have the same issue—MacBook Pro M1 Max: no issue. But for the MacBook Pro M4 Max, the 3840 x 1620 resolution option is missing,” another user reported.
Some users have found success in enabling HiDPI mode through third-party applications like BetterDisplay, although this leads to other complications, such as a refresh rate drop from 75Hz to 60Hz. Apple has yet to officially acknowledge this issue. For now, M4 Mac users with ultrawide 5K2K monitors may want to hold off on purchasing these devices until a resolution is provided.
Have you faced similar challenges with your Mac? Share your experiences in the comments below.
H/T: Cibelly Aguiar!
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